Bigger and bolder ideas to transform the water sector
The Water Breakthrough Challenge 6 is an annual flagship competition from the Ofwat Innovation Fund, a pioneering programme unleashing waves of innovation in the water sector. The overarching objective of these Water Breakthrough Challenges is to help the sector meet the needs of, and create long-term value for, customers, society and the environment. These efforts are supported by mentorship and consultative advice from Arup and Isle Utilities. The sixth round of the Water Breakthrough Challenge ‘Breakthrough 6’ opened in September 2025 and closed in January 2026, with two streams of funding available for innovations developed by water companies in England and Wales. Go to the Ofwat Innovation Fund site
Innovation through collaboration
Lead entrants for all bids were appointed Water Companies in England or Wales. However, a core requirement of the challenge is partnership. To drive true innovation, collaboration with sectors outside the water industry is strongly encouraged to bring fresh perspectives to established challenges.
New to the sector?
While this round has closed, we encourage innovators new to the water sector to engage with Spring - the water sector’s centre of excellence for innovation - to prepare for future opportunities.
Contact
For all enquiries please email the delivery team at: waterinnovation@challengeworks.org.