Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program

Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: American Water Works Company, Inc.
Last Updated: February 11, 2026

Summary

The AW Environmental Grant Program, backed by American Water Works Company, Inc., aims to support community-driven projects focused on water conservation and the protection of vital water resources. Since 2012, the foundation has invested over $15 million in innovative initiatives that enhance access to clean water and promote responsible water usage in underserved communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) charities and educational institutions committed to environmental stewardship.

Overview

Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program Since 2012, the American Water Charitable Foundation has invested over $25 million in funding through grants and matching gifts that are important to our employees and our communities. Each year, we continue to expand and strengthen our community partnerships, furthering our charitable purpose in communities served by American Water. Funding Priorities The American Water Charitable Foundation supports three pillars of giving: Water, People and Communities.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. In order to qualify for a grant, your organization must operate within, or directly benefit, an American Water service territory. Applicant must be classified as a 501(c)(3) public charity by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or K-12 public school, college or university

Ineligibility

Organizations that do not qualify:Organizations not registered as a 501(c)(3) public charityGovernment entities including townships, municipalities, citiesDonations of water or water-related servicesDonations to connect water service, pipeline or water main extension projectsCustomer assistance grants to help pay water bill. Click here to learn about Customer Assistance Programs available in your state.Individuals, including GoFundMe campaignsPolitical causes, candidates, organizations, or campaignsScholarships and tuitionSponsorships, fundraisers, festivals, banquets, galas, races, golf tournaments, or other eventsBoy Scouts of AmericaDonor advised fundsFaith-based or religious organizations, including churches, synagogues, mosques or other houses of worship, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, The Salvation Army, and other organizations that are not required to file for exemption with the IRS as they automatically qualify for 501(c)(3) status as a church. This restriction extends to projects that are supported by a church, for non-church purposes, such as a meal program, where the check would be payable to the church.K-12 schools that require religious instruction as part of their general education requirements. This restriction extends to colleges and universities that require any type of Theology, Faith or Religious courses to meet core curriculum graduation requirements. Colleges seeking assistance to identify their religious affiliation should visit the NCES website.Organizations that discriminate against people based on age, race, color, pregnancy, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, citizenship, protected veteran status, an individual’s disability status, or other status protected by federal, state, and local laws.Any grant that could be viewed as attempting to influence the outcome of a business proposal, for example, will be declined to avoid self-dealing practices.The IRS prohibits private foundations from paying for the recruitment expenses and/or training that American Water would otherwise have to pay. Job skills or training programs to maintain or gain employment with American Water would be considered a self-dealing practice. Any grant that could be viewed as a recruitment tool or inducement for employment will be declined.