WRF Seeks Pre-Proposals For High-Priority Utility Research

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is now accepting pre-proposals for its matching research program, the Tailored Collaboration Program. The Tailored Collaboration Program provides an opportunity for WRF subscribers to partner with WRF on projects that address issues of interest to a significant subgroup of WRF subscribers. The projects will focus on various high-priority One Water research topics. Through this program, WRF subscribers can receive up to $150,000 in matching funds for their projects.

“The Tailored Collaboration Program offers subscribers a valuable opportunity to make the most of their investments,” said Dr. Kenan Ozekin, WRF Chief Research Officer. “At the same time, it enables utilities to address their specific research priorities and strengthen the essential water services they deliver to customers.”

The program utilizes a competitive, two-stage application process. Pre-proposals are currently being accepted and must be sponsored by a WRF subscribing utility. WRF’s Tailored Collaboration Review Committee will review the pre-proposals, and comments will be provided to applicants. Stage 1 applicants will be invited to submit full proposals to compete for funding. Full proposals will be reviewed based on topic breadth and applicability, originality, technical approach, budget, management plan, and qualifications of key personnel. Pre-proposals are due by 3 pm Mountain Time on March 17, 2026.

To learn more about the Tailored Collaboration Program, visit WRF’s website. If you have questions about the program, please contact Mary Smith, Director of Research Services, at msmith@waterrf.org or 303.347.6134.