Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Grant
Limited submission
This EPA grant funds programs to expand and promote careers in water utilities through training, apprenticeships, and education, aiming to boost public health and workforce opportunities.
Funder: Environmental Protection Agency
Due Dates: September 14, 2026 (NOFO questions) | October 5, 2026 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $10.8M total; typical awards range from $250,000–$7.8M; up to 15 awards, project period up to 3 years.
Summary: Supports workforce development and public awareness initiatives in the water utilities sector, including training, apprenticeships, and education programs.
Description
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) seeks applications for cooperative agreements to accelerate career pipelines and expand workforce opportunities in the water utilities sector. This program aims to address workforce shortages, especially as a significant portion of the water sector workforce approaches retirement, and to equip workers with advanced technical skills needed for modern water infrastructure. Projects should support recruitment, training, and retention of water sector professionals, increase public and student awareness of water utility careers, and strengthen the workforce in rural, small, and tribal communities.
Eligible activities include:
- Internship, apprenticeship, and pre-apprenticeship programs for water utility trades
- Education programs for elementary, secondary, and higher education students
- Regional industry collaborations to address employment needs
- Training for decentralized water workers (e.g., private well and septic system professionals)
All projects must demonstrate measurable outcomes and tangible benefits for water systems and communities, and align with EPA's goal of clean air, land, and water for every American.
