Nominations for the Stockholm Water Prize 2027 are currently open. The Stockholm Water Prize is presented to an individual, institution, or organization that has made significant contributions, scientific or otherwise, to advancing our understanding of water resources and promoting their sustainable use and protection. These efforts must lead to improved human health and well-being and the preservation of ecosystems. Contributions may span natural sciences, engineering, technology, education, policy, and practical implementation.

Since 1991, the Stockholm Water Prize has been awarded annually to celebrate exceptional contributions in water-related fields, such as scientific research, policy, engineering, education, and practice. It recognizes academic excellence and tangible impact on the environment and society. This global award highlights the critical importance of water management and protection in addressing health, climate, and equity challenges.

The Stockholm Water Foundation, in partnership with the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, and under the patronage of H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden, presents the Prize. Nominations are open for the 2027 edition, which aims to spotlight those whose work in water deserves the world’s recognition.

Details

• Application Deadline: 15 September 2026
• Result Announcement Dates: March 2027 (in conjunction with World Water Day)
• Award Ceremony: World Water Week in August 2027
• Funding Type: Award
• Awarding institution: Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI)
• Partner: The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences
• Eligible Countries: All countries
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: Individuals, Institutions, Organizations
• Field: Water sustainability, science, policy, engineering, education
• Degree Required: Not specified
• Number of Opportunities: One Laureate annually
• Program Language: English
• Host Country: Sweden

Prize Details

• International recognition as a leading contributor to global water sustainability
• Prestigious award presented by the King of Sweden
• A formal ceremony and featured role during World Water Week

Eligibility criteria

Individuals or organizations meeting the following criteria can be nominated for the prize from any part of the world:

• Open to individuals, institutions, or organizations worldwide
• Nominees must have made significant, lasting contributions to understanding, managing, or protecting water resources in the past ten years.
• Contributions must align with either research or policy/practice
• Self-nominations are not accepted
• Nominees must not be affiliated with the Stockholm Water Foundation or its related entities.

Additionally, nominees should have outstanding achievements in at least one of the following:

1. Research: Advancing basic or applied research and scientific leadership in water-related fields.

2. Policy and Practices: Improving water governance, management, and access—covering human rights, international cooperation, conflict resolution, sustainable resource use, water supply and sanitation, and developing effective technologies or policies.

Achievements in public outreach, education, and awareness-raising are also valued across both categories.

Evaluation process

• Initial short nominations are submitted online
• The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences reviews and selects outstanding candidates.
• Selected nominators may be invited to submit a full nomination
• External experts may conduct a peer review
• The final decision was made at the Academy’s General Meeting and ratified by the Stockholm Water Foundation.
• Nomination materials remain confidential.
• Criteria include significance, lasting impact, and potential to inspire further advancements in water-related fields.

How to nominate?

Nominations can be made online.

Nominate Now

A strong nomination showcases your candidate’s qualifications. Keep these tips in mind:

• Be Clear and Complete: Avoid incomplete or vague submissions—they weaken your candidate’s case.
• Make It Easy to Review: Write concisely so the committee can quickly grasp the candidate’s achievements.
• Stay Focused: Highlight how the candidate meets the award criteria with specific, relevant examples.
• Complete the Form Fully: Ensure all required fields are filled out clearly and accurately.

For more information about this prize and to see the previous laureates, refer to the Stockholm Water Prize.

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