OUR INNOVATION MODEL
WaterStart accelerates innovation in the global water sector by connecting technology companies with water agencies and major consumers seeking solutions to their most pressing challenges.
As a non-profit organization, WaterStart fosters collaboration among academic institutions, public agencies, and private industry to cultivate a thriving innovation ecosystem. Our model supports each phase of the innovation lifecycle, helping to:
- validate and deploy emerging technologies;
- support investment and entrepreneurship in the water sector;
- advance a water-efficient economy;
- develop a skilled, tech-savvy workforce; and
- shape a more resilient, sustainable future.
By aligning market needs with innovative solutions, WaterStart transforms how the world manages water – driving both environmental and economic impact at scale.
how it works
1. Set Tech Priorities
1. Set Tech Priorities
1. Set Tech Priorities
Technology priorities are the water-related issues facing our partners that manage water systems, such as large water utilities or municipalities. WaterStart aims to match priorities with technology companies that have the potential to provide sustainable solutions in the backdrop of drought and community growth.
2. Recruit technology
1. Set Tech Priorities
1. Set Tech Priorities
WaterStart recruits technologies nationally and internationally through a Request-for-Proposal process. These RFPs are disseminated through WaterStart's global network and seek technologies that address specific technology priorities.
3. pilot potential solutions
3. pilot potential solutions
3. pilot potential solutions
WaterStart faciliates the development, funding, and execution of pilot projects. These projects offer an opportunity to evaluate the technical capabilities and operational efficiency of innovative solutions. Such projects accelerate technical readiness levels and create opportunities for technology companies to commercialize their product
WaterStart faciliates the development, funding, and execution of pilot projects. These projects offer an opportunity to evaluate the technical capabilities and operational efficiency of innovative solutions. Such projects accelerate technical readiness levels and create opportunities for technology companies to commercialize their products, potentially qualifying them as technologies that can meet economic development objectives.
4. promote outcomes
3. pilot potential solutions
3. pilot potential solutions
Project outcomes are disseminated and highlighted through H20 Tech Connect, WaterStart's open innovation platform, and peer-to-peer connections. By facilitating opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing, WaterStart drives stronger water innovation across industry sectors and enables significant learnings that eases the uptake
Project outcomes are disseminated and highlighted through H20 Tech Connect, WaterStart's open innovation platform, and peer-to-peer connections. By facilitating opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing, WaterStart drives stronger water innovation across industry sectors and enables significant learnings that eases the uptake of water technologies.
