Award Name: Kyoto World Water Grand Prize 2027
Organized By: Japan Water Forum
Opportunity Type: International grassroots award
Ceremony Venue: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Application Window: March 31, 2026 – June 12, 2026
Award Value: 2,000,000 JPY
The Japan Water Forum Kyoto World Water Grand Prize 2027 is open for applications from grassroots organizations addressing water-related issues in developing countries. According to the source, the prize will be conferred during the 11th World Water Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where global water stakeholders gather for dialogue on water issues.
About the Award
The prize was established in 2003 as an international award recognizing grassroots organizations working on water challenges in developing countries. The source explains that the award is meant both to honor local action and to spread wider awareness of the importance of grassroots efforts in tackling water issues.
The page also states that the selection concept values activities that respect the unique social and cultural characteristics of local communities. In addition, it notes that past awardees have used the support to strengthen existing activities and start new ones.
Award Benefits
✓ Prize money of 2,000,000 JPY
✓ Approximate equivalent of USD 13,000, depending on the exchange rate
✓ Funding intended to continue and enhance the awarded activities
✓ One representative of the winning organization will be invited to the ceremony, appear on stage, and give an acceptance speech
The official page also requires the winning organization to submit a report within one year on the activities carried out using the prize money.
Who Can Apply
• Applicants must be non-profit, non-governmental, and locally led organizations based in a developing country
• Their activities must be non-sectarian and conducted independently
• Their initiatives must show clear local ownership and must not be mainly financed or controlled by external entities from developing countries
How to Apply
The source states that the application language is English. It directs applicants to read the Application Guidelines carefully before beginning. It also explains that applications must be submitted through the online application form.
The page further notes that applicants facing technical problems with the online form because of network issues should contact the Secretariat.
How Applications Are Reviewed
• Projects must have been implemented during the five-year period from 2020 to 2024
• Follow-up activities may continue through 2025
• The Kyoto World Water Grand Prize 2027 Selection Committee reviews the applications
• One Grand Prize winner will be selected
Ceremony Details
The award ceremony will take place at the Opening or Closing Ceremony of the 11th World Water Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in March 2027. The same source states that the forum itself will be held from March 21 to 25, 2027.
Important Dates
The application period opens on March 31, 2026 and closes on June 12, 2026, Friday, at 11:59 p.m. JST. Late applications will not be accepted.
