Canadian Water Network (CWN) is launching the Canadian Water Network Foundation (CWN Foundation), a newly established, CRA-approved charitable entity. With a mission to advance excellence, equity and innovation in water management in Canada, the CWN Foundation represents an important new chapter in strengthening the water sector for the years ahead.

The CWN Foundation has been established to mobilize new sources of funding, support talent development, research and innovation, and advance equity and inclusion in water-related education and careers. While CWN will continue its core work, the CWN Foundation creates a complementary vehicle to scale impact through philanthropy and partnerships. This opens the door to more flexible and targeted investments in priority areas across Canada’s water landscape.

For its first five years, the CWN Foundation is focusing on four evolving program areas that will be refined as funding is secured. These include:

1. An Indigenous water fund to support Indigenous-led initiatives such as research, education, and collaborative projects.
2. A new Water Leadership Academy to support the advancement of water professionals from underrepresented groups.
3. A research and innovation fund for solution-oriented research and pilot projects with strong potential to advance water management practices in Canada.
4. A water careers program for post-secondary students from underrepresented groups pursuing education in water management and related fields.

The CWN Foundation is guided by three core principles:

1. Partnership and collaboration across the water sector.
2. A commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples through support for Indigenous-led priorities.
3. A targeted investment model that directs funding proactively rather than through an open application process.

This approach is designed to ensure that investments are strategic, responsive and aligned with the Foundation’s mission.

More details on the CWN Foundation’s program areas will be shared in the coming months. A website at cwnf.ca is now available and will continue to evolve as new information becomes available.

Looking ahead, the CWN Foundation is positioned to become a major contributor to Canada’s water sector — helping to build capacity, drive innovation and strengthen leadership across the country. Over time, it aims to play a meaningful role in positioning Canada as a global leader in water management.