Water Europe is proud to announce that its annual flagship event, Water Innovation Europe (WIE) 2026, will take place in Dublin, Ireland, on 13-14 October 2026. Following the resounding success of last year’s edition in Copenhagen, which gathered over 300 global water leaders, this year’s event moves to the “Silicon Docks” to tackle one of the most critical regulatory milestones in recent history.

Raising the Bar for the Water Framework Directive

The theme for WIE2026 is “Raising the bar for the Water Framework Directive,” focusing on the collective action and breakthrough innovations required to meet the Directive’s ambitious 2027 objectives.

With less than two years remaining on the clock, WIE2026 will serve as a high-level summit for policymakers, investors, and researchers. The agenda will explore strategies to advance blue finance, mobilize private investment for innovative water solutions, and measure real-world progress in the implementation of the Water Framework Directive to ensure a Water-Smart and resilient Europe.

The Search for the 2026 Water-Smart Winners Begins

Coinciding with the event announcement, Water Europe has officially opened applications for the 2026 European Water-Smart Awards.

These prestigious awards recognize the pioneers, cities, industries, and innovators, who are turning the Water Europe Vision into reality. Winners will be honored during the WIE2026 Gala Dinner on 13 October in front of an audience of EU Commissioners, high-level EU representatives, and industry titans.

The 2026 Award Categories are:

Water-Smart Industry Award
Water-Smart City and Region Award
Water-Smart Agriculture Award
Water-Smart River Basin Award
Water-Smart Investment & Finance Award

Why Apply?

Beyond the trophy, winners and finalists gain unparalleled pan-European visibility. Benefits include featured success stories in the official Water Innovation Europe Report, interview opportunities, and a platform to speak at future Water Europe events. For finalists, it is a gateway to Europe’s most influential water innovation ecosystem and the exclusive Awards Alumni Network.

The deadline for applications is 15 September 2026. Apply here.

Relive the Momentum: The 2025 Report

To prepare for the discussions in Dublin, Water Europe has released the WIE2025 Post-Event Report. Based on the insights gathered in Copenhagen, this document outlines the key recommendations that will shape the Dublin agenda. Download the 2025 Report here.

Showcase and Support

WIE2026 offers a unique stage for organizations to demonstrate their contribution to the European Water Resilience Strategy.

Exhibition: Limited booth packages are available to showcase innovative solutions. Contact Ioana Oprisan for details.
Sponsorship: Join the ranks of previous supporters like Grundfos, Dansk Industri, and DHI Group. To share your perspective on the grand stage, contact Loic Charpentier.

For more information, visit the official website.

Water Europe

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