Water Conservation Trust

The Water Conservation Trust, the charitable arm of the Worshipful Company of Water Conservators—a modern London livery company—serves as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation governed by eight independent trustees. Established to advance the science, art, and practice of water and environmental management, it focuses on education, research, and poverty relief in the sector. Its mission promotes progress in water conservation and environmental stewardship, upholding values of integrity, professionalism, innovation, and inclusivity through events like the annual City Water Debate and technical webinars that foster knowledge exchange and ethical practice.

The Trust funds targeted bursaries and dissertation grants for postgraduate students pursuing MSc programmes in water and environmental sciences at select UK universities, prioritising early-career professionals and those facing financial hardship. Support emphasises high-impact educational advancement, scientific innovation, and practical mentoring from the Company's network, amplifying outcomes through professional involvement and sector-wide benefits like career development and outreach.

Eligibility is strictly limited to UK nationals or permanent residents applying via partner university processes—no unsolicited applications from charities or organisations are accepted. There are no income or size requirements for entities, as funding targets individuals only.

Grants are fixed at £5,000 per student for tuition fee reductions, awarded competitively through university-administered schemes with varying deadlines (e.g., August 31 or October 5, 2025, for 2025/26). It excludes organisational, project, core, or unrestricted funding, distinguishing itself through its livery ties, UK-centric focus on individual talent in water sciences, and strategic leverage of professional expertise for multiplier effects.