WaterSMART: Desalination Construction Projects
This grant funds planning, design, and construction of desalination facilities to increase reliable local water supplies through federal and non-federal partnerships.
Funder: Bureau of Reclamation
Due Dates: June 26, 2026 (Feasibility study submission, first period) | August 26, 2026 (Full application, first period) | November 20, 2026 (Feasibility study review, first period) | January 15, 2027 (Feasibility study submission, second period) | July 15, 2027 (Feasibility study review, second period) | August 26, 2027 (Full application, second period)
Funding Amounts: Up to $120,000,000 per award; minimum $1,000; approx. 10 awards; federal share max 25% of total project cost; total program funding $120 million.
Summary: Supports planning, design, and construction of desalination facilities to increase reliable water supply in the western U.S.
Key Information: Requires 75% non-federal cost share; only public agencies in select western states are eligible.
Description
This opportunity from the Bureau of Reclamation funds the planning, design, and/or construction of facilities to desalinate seawater or brackish surface water or groundwater. The program aims to diversify local water supplies, enhance drought resiliency, and provide more reliable water for growing communities in the western United States. Projects must be led or sponsored by eligible public agencies and are expected to address regional water supply challenges, leverage non-federal funding, and comply with federal requirements such as Buy America and Davis-Bacon Act wage provisions.
