About the Application & Award Process
The WIS Award highlights groundbreaking water technology innovations and offers companies a platform to gain international visibility. Below you’ll find an overview of the full application (edition 2028) and selection process — from submitting your innovation to presenting it live on stage during the Grand Finale at EWTW. Each phase is designed to ensure a fair, transparent and inspiring competition that celebrates the most promising water tech solutions of tomorrow.
- Application for the 2028-edition
Candidates for the 2028 WIS Award must submit a short promotional text (maximum 200 words) describing their innovative product or technology. In addition, candidates must complete a supplementary application form provided by the Water Alliance, containing more detailed technical and market information. Each company may submit only one entry.
- Nomination
The Water Alliance will review all submissions and select five to seven finalists for the 2028 WIS Award.
- Promotion
All five nominees will receive equal promotion and visibility throughout the competition period via Water Alliance channels and partner events.
- Finale Pitches
During the European Water Technology Week (EWTW) in Leeuwarden, all nominees will present their innovation live on stage at the Grand Finale on Monday, 26 October 2026.
- Jury & Winner Announcement
Final presentations will be evaluated by a professional jury consisting of chair Prof. Dr. Cees Buisman and others. More information about the jury members can be found on the jury page. The winner of the WIS Award will be announced directly following the Grand Finale at EWTW.
Curious what the timeline looks like?
Take a look at the overview below to see all key moments of the WIS Award — from the opening of applications to the announcement of the winner at EWTW. It gives you a clear and simple snapshot of every step in the process.