Small-Scale Water Efficiency Projects (SWEP) (WaterSMART)
Funds small-scale projects to modernize water infrastructure and improve water efficiency and supply reliability in the American West through targeted technological upgrades.
Funder: Bureau of Reclamation
Due Dates: June 2, 2026
Funding Amounts: Up to $100,000 per project; 50/50 cost share required; recent cycles funded ~36 projects with $3.3–$3.7M total.
Summary: Supports small-scale water efficiency projects to modernize infrastructure and increase water supply reliability in the American West.
Key Information: Applications must be submitted via Grants.gov; cost sharing is required.
Description
The Small-Scale Water Efficiency Projects (SWEP) program, part of the Bureau of Reclamation's WaterSMART initiative, provides cost-shared funding for projects that address water supply challenges in the American West. The program targets small-scale, tangible water efficiency improvements such as the installation of flow measurement or automation equipment, canal lining to reduce seepage, and similar upgrades to water delivery systems. The goal is to help irrigation and water districts, tribes, states, and other eligible entities modernize their water infrastructure, improve water management, and enhance supply reliability, especially in the context of drought, population growth, and aging infrastructure.
