Jeddah: The Saudi Water Authority (SWA) has launched the new identity of the Global Prize for Innovation in Water (GPIW), renewing its invitation to innovators, researchers, and academic and research institutions interested in participating in the prize's third edition to register via the official website: https://gpiw.net/.
According to Saudi Press Agency, this comes as the countdown begins for the prize ceremony scheduled to take place in Jeddah on December 8 in conjunction with the fourth edition of the Innovation-Driven Water Sustainability Conference (IDWS). Following record-breaking participation in both previous editions-in the number of applicants and the countries represented-the third edition reaffirms the authority's commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and empowering scientific and technical talent, contributing to the advancement of the water sector regionally and globally.
Since its inception, GPIW has emerged as one of the world's most respected international platforms supporting research and development in the water sector. It provides a high-level scientific and competitive environment that brings together innovators from various disciplines, helping to transition their projects from concept to practical implementation in real-world operational environments.
Under its new identity, this year's edition encompasses six major categories that reflect the most pressing challenges and promising opportunities in water technology solutions. These categories serve as the foundation for competition among participants, underscoring the diversity of the prize and its alignment with global shifts in water resource management. The categories include: Advanced Water Production Technologies, Water Quality Improvement and Reclamation, Circular and Zero Liquid Discharge Water Production Processes, Digital Business Model, Process Optimization and Automation Management, Sustainable Water Production and Environmental Conservation, and Cost-Effective Wastewater Treatment Technologies.
The prize is awarded across three main tracks: the Discovery Prize for early-stage projects, the Leadership Prize for advanced projects, and the Impact Prizes, which recognize 12 projects that have demonstrated effectiveness in practical application. In addition, special honorary categories are included that focus on market readiness, policy impact, and excellence in innovation environments, further broadening the scope of scientific and commercial recognition for winning projects.
The release also highlighted that the previous two editions attracted over 650 entries from 44 countries, with participation from more than 120 international entities, including universities, research institutes, and startups. More than 22 winners were awarded financial prizes and operational opportunities worth over $2 million.
With strict scientific standards, international judging mechanisms, and partnerships with leading specialized entities, the prize has become a premier platform for serious innovation projects. It also allows participants to engage with a global network of experts and practitioners within a framework that promotes knowledge exchange and accelerates technology transfer.
Through this initiative, the Saudi Water Authority reaffirms its strategic commitment to supporting innovation as a key driver for water resource sustainability. The authority invites innovators, researchers, academic institutions, and technology companies to submit their entries to this edition as the Kingdom continues to establish itself as a global hub for water research and innovation.