European Water Academy: Knowledge and innovation for a water-resilient Europe

The European Commission launched the European Water Academy on 21 September 2026. The initiative aims to strengthen skills in the water sector and bring research closer to practice. As a flagship action under the European Water Resilience Strategy, it connects universities, research institutions, businesses, water utilities and public bodies. Its goal is to better protect Europe’s water resources through knowledge transfer, training and collaboration.

Climate change, pollution and ageing infrastructure are putting Europe’s water resources under pressure. Shortcomings in water management and skills gaps add to these challenges. The consequences affect ecosystems as well as agriculture, industry and energy supply. The European Water Academy therefore focuses on translating scientific knowledge and technological solutions into practice.

Water management: Connecting research and practice

The European Water Academy is designed as a “network of networks”. It connects organisations that generate knowledge with those that apply it in planning, operations and regulation. These include public authorities, universities, research and technology organisations, water professionals, water utilities, industry and professional associations.

At its launch, eight partner organisations committed to providing high-quality training in different languages as the Academy’s “First Champions”. Topics include wastewater treatment, leak detection, pipe installation and drinking water production.

Bringing innovations into practice faster

Led by the Joint Research Centre (JRC), the European Commission’s science and knowledge service, the Academy also aims to support the transfer of innovative water technologies into practice. When the initiative was announced in June 2025, the Commission highlighted areas such as water reuse, desalination, precision irrigation and wastewater surveillance. Researchers and businesses will receive support in identifying pathways to commercialise new technologies.

For universities, research institutions, businesses and municipalities in Bavaria, the initiative could offer opportunities for knowledge exchange, skills development and European collaboration. Connecting research with practical applications is particularly relevant: new solutions for sustainable water management require both technical expertise and skilled professionals to implement them.

Information about the initiative, its partner organisations and training opportunities is available on the European Water Academy website.

Explore EU funding opportunities for your project idea

Are you developing a research or innovation project in water management, climate change adaptation or resource efficiency? The Bavarian Research Alliance (BayFOR) supports stakeholders in Bavaria in identifying suitable EU research and innovation funding opportunities, finding European project partners and preparing funding applications.

Find out how BayFOR’s EU Funding Centre can support you.

Dr. Thomas Ammerl
Head of Unit Environment, Energy & Bioeconomy
Phone: +49 89 9901888-120
Email: ammerl@no-spam-pleasebayfor.org