Europe is entering a decisive moment for research and innovation for the water sector: with the upcoming publication of the final Horizon Europe Work Programme (2026–2027) approaching, this is the time to connect, collaborate, and create the partnerships that will define the next years of the European collaborative water research and innovation.
Water Knowledge Europe – Winter Edition 2025, taking place from 2 to 4 December 2025 in Brussels, is the flagship brokerage and networking event of Water Europe for R&I. It brings together researchers, innovators, industries, utilities, policymakers, investors, and stakeholders from across Europe and beyond, all united by the shared goal of advancing a Water-Smart Society and Economy.
On 3 December, the WKE Core Event will offer participants a unique opportunity to:
– Explore the latest Horizon Europe 2026–2027 calls and funding priorities from the European Commission;
– Present new project ideas in dedicated pitching sessions;
– Learn from successful EU projects and best practices in water innovation;
– Discover additional funding opportunities beyond Horizon Europe;
– Participate in B2B matchmaking sessions to build strong and competitive consortia.
WKE is more than a conference: it’s where ideas become partnerships, and partnerships become projects.
In Brussels, at the heart of European R&I, Water Europe convenes the people and organisations shaping the future of water. The WKE Winter Edition will also feature a rich programme of side events. Check the agenda below to know more.
The event will take place at the Thon Hotel EU (Rue de la Loi 75, 1040 Brussels), Participants who wish to stay at the same venue of the event can benefit from a special discount using this link. Please note that the booking discount is available until 31 October.
The Water Europe Community Day is designed as a high-level yet hands-on workshop, the event will be structured around Water Europe’s Vision pillars, Water Security, Water Sustainability, and Water Resilience, under which the Expert Groups and Communities of Practice operate in a complementary and integrative manner.
Its main goal is to define a consolidated set of R&I priorities for the European water sector, contributing to the forthcoming WE Water-Smart Technology Roadmap. The results will inform FP10 and reinforce Water Europe’s R&I strategic position.
Beyond its strategic scope, the Community Day will offer a unique space for co-creation and networking, bringing together the WE community, EGs, CoPs, and members, and will conclude with an informal gathering celebrating collaboration and shared purpose.
- Andrea Rubini, Director of Operations, Water Europe
- Bertrand Vallet, European Commission, DG RTD
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