Funding sustainable water solutions for vulnerable communities. Join a global network of donors, partners, and field teams working together to deliver safe, reliable water infrastructure where it's needed most. From concept to completion, we support projects that transform funding into functioning wells, resilient systems, and measurable impact.
Driving measurable change across borders
We combine targeted financing with robust programme management to ensure every funded project delivers durable, community-centred outcomes.
Our grants prioritise high-need regions and evidence-based interventions. Using real-time data from the Water Program Tracker, we identify gaps in access, prioritise under-served communities, and fund projects with clear implementation plans and measurable milestones.
We do not just disburse funds and walk away. Grantees receive structured support across the project lifecycle, including proposal refinement, budgeting guidance, and technical advisory input. Our team collaborates closely with implementing partners to address operational risks and adapt to on-ground realities.
With water fund programmes across 21 countries, applicants join a growing ecosystem of NGOs, community-based organisations, local authorities, and technical experts. This network encourages peer learning, cross-country knowledge exchange, and collaborative innovation in water access solutions.
Every funded project is integrated into the HDF Water Program Tracker. This allows us to monitor donations, wells funded, wells completed, and geographic coverage. The result is a transparent, auditable record of impact that strengthens your accountability to donors and communities alike.
Our process is designed to be efficient, transparent, and aligned with field realities, so you can focus on delivering results on the ground.
Delivering sustainable water, sanitation, and infrastructure solutions through trusted local partners
Find quick answers to the most common questions about our water grant application process, funding criteria, and project management.
We support projects that provide safe, reliable, and sustainable access to water for vulnerable communities. This includes boreholes and wells, small-scale water systems, rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure, and integrated water projects linked to health, education, or livelihoods. Proposals must demonstrate clear community need, feasibility, and long-term sustainability.
Eligible applicants include registered non-profit organisations, community-based organisations, and institutional partners with demonstrated capacity to implement water projects. We particularly welcome applications from organisations with strong local presence and established community trust.
Transparency is central to our model. All approved projects are integrated into the HDF Water Program Tracker, which records total funds raised, donations received, wells funded, and wells completed. This allows donors and partners to see how resources move from contributions to completed infrastructure.
Most funding decisions are made within 4–6 weeks of receiving a complete proposal, depending on the volume of applications and the technical complexity of the project. During this period, we may request clarifications or adjustments to strengthen your proposal before final review.
Impact is measured using both quantitative and qualitative indicators. Quantitative data include funds disbursed, number of wells funded and completed, and countries served. Qualitative data capture community feedback, changes in daily water access, and improvements in health and livelihoods. These insights are consolidated in programme reports and inform future funding priorities.
To begin, create an account on the HDF Applicant Portal and complete your organisation profile. You can then browse active water funding opportunities, review eligibility criteria, and start your application. Guidance notes and templates are provided to help you develop a strong proposal.
From application to project approval — a clear, collaborative process every step of the way
Every completed well represents reduced disease, restored dignity, and new possibilities for work, study, and family life. By partnering with HDF, your organisation gains not only funding, but also a structured system to design, track, and grow your impact across borders. Start your application today and turn your next water project from an idea into a completed, verifiable well that communities can depend on.
