Desalination and Water Purification Research Program: Research Projects
This grant funds innovative research to develop and commercialize cost-effective, energy-efficient technologies for desalinating and purifying impaired water to increase U.S. water supplies.
Funder: Bureau of Reclamation
Due Dates: September 29, 2026 (Full application, due by 4:00 PM MT)
Funding Amounts: Total program funding: $5,700,000 | Laboratory-scale projects: up to $300,000 (max 24 months) | Pilot-scale projects: up to $800,000 (max 36 months)
Summary: Supports innovative laboratory and pilot-scale research to advance desalination and water purification technologies for increasing water supplies and reducing treatment costs.
Description
This program, offered by the Bureau of Reclamation, funds research projects that develop, improve, and demonstrate innovative water treatment technologies—specifically desalination and purification of impaired water sources. The initiative targets both laboratory-scale (bench-scale) and pilot-scale (larger demonstration) projects that can help reduce the costs, energy use, and barriers associated with water treatment for beneficial uses. The program seeks proposals with potential for widespread applicability and technology commercialization, supporting Reclamation’s mission to increase water supply flexibility and resilience.
