6 Tips for writing a Proposal in the Water Sector

World Water Day, 22nd March, s about water and climate change – and how the two are inextricably linked.

Water is life – this is not just a saying, but the absolute truth. Without enough clean water, societies cannot thrive and problems arise. Still, one out of nine people worldwide does not has access to safe water. One out of three people does not have access to a toilet. Still managed water supplies and sanitation facilities are limited in many parts of the world. The scarcity of water, natural disasters like flooding, and lack of proper wastewater management are obstructions to social and economic development. Improving water distribution and management are important aspects that many NGOs are working towards.

On the occasion of World Water Day, we have put together six tips to write a proposal for the water sector.

Think holistically about the problem and your solutions

Especially when writing a proposal in the water sector, you have to think holistically about the problem. Water has an influence on all aspects of the life of the people and these interconnections have to be recognized in your proposal. Access to clean drinking water does not only influence the health of people. Children will go to school more frequently, women will be able to generate more income and many other aspects of life will be touched when water quality is good. Show your donor that you clearly understand all these interconnections and cross-cutting themes and that your project will have a maximum impact.

Be up to date

In the water sector, a lot of research takes place and new solutions are discovered every day. Make sure that you are on top of things and know the newest developments. You do not want to propose the use of an outdated irrigation system or of water filters that have been improved with a new model last year.

Look at the entire water circle

Many times when NGOs want to work in the water sector, the focus is on the problem of access to clean drinking water or sanitation. Make sure though you understand the entire circle. What will happen with the wastewater? How will black water be treated and where will it go? If you want to dig a new well or use water from a source – will it be enough? Will there be any unexpected outcomes if the water will be used in a different spot? Make sure that you have good answers to all of these questions do not make a problem worse instead of solving it.

Connect your project to the SDGs

The availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all is the Sustainable Development Goal number 6. Make sure that you connect to the appropriate target that relates to your project in your proposal.

Make sure to include all stakeholders

Water management is not always easy – many stakeholders have an interest in the resource, and these interests are not always the same. Farmers need water for a different purpose than industry, families, or energy producers. Make sure that you include all stakeholders and also the local government in your project planning and explain this in your proposal.

Sustainability

To consider issues of sustainability is of core importance in a water-related project. We only have limited water resources to dispose of, and taking good care of these resources is of core importance for humanity. Make sure that you have a good sustainability plan in your proposal and do not only think of short-term benefits.