Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Grant

The Environmental Protection Agency is soliciting applications for the Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Grant to accelerate career pipelines and expand opportunities in the drinking water and wastewater utility sector. Funded projects must focus on expanding water utility career opportunities and elevating public awareness about water workforce jobs through activities such as apprenticeships, internships, education programs for various student levels, and regional industry collaborations. Proposed projects should target measurable results, such as placing trained individuals into water sector jobs, preparing them for industry accreditation, or developing technical school and utility collaborations to meet local employment needs. Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, and public works departments or agencies. Applications must be submitted by October 5, 2026, to compete for an estimated total program funding of $10,800,000 across approximately 15 expected awards with an award ceiling of $7,800,000.