The Global Water Awards 2026 has officially opened nominations, with a deadline of February 27 at 23:59 GMT. Following a rebrand, the awards now feature an expanded shortlist and a new category focused on artificial intelligence, providing more avenues for industry professionals to gain international recognition. Organized by Global Water Intelligence (GWI), the awards honor excellence across 15 categories in water, wastewater, technology, and desalination, and are widely regarded as the water industry's most prestigious accolade.
Previous winners and shortlisted nominees have leveraged the awards to secure major business deals, with past honorees ranging from multinational water management companies, investors, and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms to utilities, industrial water users, and nonprofit water providers. A comprehensive list of previous winners is available at https://globalwaterawards.com/winners.
Nominations are open to all entities, and the shortlist will be promoted to GWI's audience of over 40,000 readers. Winners will be announced live at the Global Water Awards ceremony, held during the Global Water Summit in Madrid. Submissions must be made via the secure portal on the Global Water Awards website at https://globalwaterawards.com/.
The inclusion of an AI-focused category reflects the growing importance of digital transformation and smart technologies in water management. This expansion underscores the industry's shift toward leveraging data analytics and machine learning to optimize water distribution, wastewater treatment, and resource conservation. By recognizing innovations in AI, the awards aim to encourage further technological advancements that address critical water challenges worldwide.
The Global Water Awards serve as a platform for showcasing excellence and fostering collaboration across the water sector. The opportunity to be shortlisted can significantly enhance a company's visibility, attract potential partners, and facilitate investment. For many organizations, the recognition has been a catalyst for growth and market expansion.
As water scarcity and quality issues intensify globally, the role of innovation and best practices becomes increasingly critical. The awards not only celebrate achievements but also highlight solutions that can be replicated to improve water management on a larger scale. The 2026 edition is expected to draw a diverse range of participants, from established industry leaders to emerging startups, all vying for the industry's top honors.
With the expanded shortlist and new category, the Global Water Awards 2026 offer a unique opportunity for water professionals to showcase their contributions to a global audience. The nomination process is straightforward, and all submissions are reviewed by a panel of industry experts. The final winners will be unveiled at the ceremony in Madrid, where the best in the industry will be recognized for their impact on water sustainability and innovation.
