If you’re a researcher, journalist, or part of a civil society group working on water justice, you can now apply for support through the Fair Water Action Fund, an initiative by Water Witness.
The fund offers grants, as well as technical and legal assistance, to organisations in the Global South advancing equitable water access and governance.
The Fund prioritises applications from African countries experiencing physical and economic water scarcity and supports initiatives that tackle the interrelated challenges of water, climate, biodiversity, and social inequality.
What the Fund Supports
The Fair Water Action Fund empowers civil society organisations, researchers, and media outlets in the Global South to:
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Monitor accountability and governance in the water sector
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Amplify community voices
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Conduct evidence-based research
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Advocate for policy and systemic change in line with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation)
Focus Areas
Eligible proposals should aim to:
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Investigate the water impacts of multinational corporations, global supply chains, and government institutions at national or local levels
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Develop initiatives that improve water security through equitable, safe, and sustainable water access or reduce risks from drought, flooding, pollution, or conflict
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Drive systemic change through policy reforms, stronger regulatory frameworks, or improved accountability among key stakeholders such as governments, development partners, and corporations
Funding Information
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Grants range from GBP 3,000 to GBP 36,000 per project
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Individual applicants typically receive between GBP 3,000 and GBP 8,000
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Projects must be completed within 12 months, with possible extensions for exceptional cases
Eligibility
Applications are open to:
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Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), media organisations, and coalitions/networks involved in water-related work
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Investigative journalists and researchers/institutes based in the Global South
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Proposals from Africa will be given priority
Submissions will be evaluated based on the strength of the concept, potential for transformative impact, and the applicant’s capacity to deliver results.
How to Apply
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Complete the application form here
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Visit the official website for more details
Application Deadline: December 31, 2025
The Fair Water Action Fund, initiated by Water Witness, is offering grants, along with technical and legal support, to organizations in the Global South focused on equitable water access and governance. Prioritizing applications from African countries facing water challenges, the fund seeks initiatives addressing water, climate, biodiversity, and social inequality.
The fund supports efforts by civil society organizations, researchers, and media in the Global South to monitor governance in the water sector, amplify community voices, conduct research, and advocate for policy changes in line with Sustainable Development Goal 6. Proposals should aim to investigate water impacts by corporations and governments, develop initiatives for water security, and drive systemic change through policy reforms and improved accountability.
Funding ranges from GBP 3,000 to GBP 36,000 per project, with typical individual grants between GBP 3,000 and GBP 8,000, requiring completion within 12 months, with possible extensions. Eligibility is open to civil society and media organizations, investigative journalists, and researchers in the Global South, with a preference for African proposals. Applications are evaluated based on concept strength, potential impact, and applicant capability, with a deadline of December 31, 2025. To apply, complete the application form or visit the official website for more information.
