Desalination and Water Purification Research Program: Research Projects

The Bureau of Reclamation, under the Department of the Interior, is soliciting proposals for innovative laboratory and pilot-scale research projects under its Desalination and Water Purification Research Program to advance technologies that reduce the cost and energy needed to treat impaired water for beneficial use. The goal is to expand water supplies and increase flexibility for water managers by developing scalable solutions with broad applicability and clear pathways to commercialization, aligning with the agency’s mission to manage water resources in an environmentally and economically sound way. Proposals must demonstrate potential for widespread impact and practical adoption by water utilities and stakeholders across the nation. This solicitation, identified as R26AS00052, was posted on July 29, 2026, with a deadline for responses on September 29, 2026, and is open to eligible applicants seeking federal funding for water treatment innovation. The initiative supports broader federal priorities, including those outlined in Executive Order 14154 to unleash American energy and Executive Order 14332 to improve oversight in federal grantmaking, reinforcing alignment with current administration objectives. All proposals must be submitted through the designated grants portal, and inquiries should be directed to the Bureau of Reclamation’s Point of Contact email. There is no set-aside specified, and performance may occur anywhere in the United States.