Waterproof 2026 - Shaping Water Solutions for a Changing Climate
19 May 2026 

Waterproof 2026 is the international meeting place where the Dutch water sector comes together to help shape tomorrow’s water solutions. In the run-up to the UN Water Conference 2026, this one-day event invites you to actively contribute to the ideas, partnerships and actions that will be presented on the global stage.

Expect an energetic, hands-on day. No passive listening – participants will play an active role throughout the programme.

About the event
Waterproof 2026 is organised by Partners for Water, the Dutch government programme connecting public, private, financial, knowledge and social organisations to improve water security worldwide. Parnters for Water has a proven track record of over 25 years, supporting more than 100 projects that improve water security and water safety across the globe.

Together with 400 leading international water professionals, we will find answers to the question:
How can water accelerate climate action, resilience and sustainable development?

Why Waterproof 2026?
Water challenges are becoming more complex, interconnected and urgent. Climate change, biodiversity loss, urbanisation and water security demand integrated solutions – and strong collaboration.

Waterproof 2026 creates the space to:

  • Exchange perspectives across sectors and disciplines
  • Connect local realities with global ambitions
  • Co-create ideas that move from strategy to action
  • Your input matters! What we discuss here feeds directly into the international water agenda that will be presented at the UN Water Conference 2026. 

Who should attend?
Waterproof 2026 brings together professionals from the internationally active Dutch water sector, including:

  • Public authorities and policymakers
  • Private companies and financiers
  • Knowledge institutions and researchers
  • NGOs and social organisations
  • Students

If you work on water, climate, finance, innovation or governance – this event is for you.

What you gain – our promises to participants
By joining Waterproof 2026, you will:

  1. Expand and strengthen your network
    Connect with professionals from across the water sector in an open, collaborative setting. We are certain you will leave with at least 15 new connections. 
  2. Actively shape solutions
    Take part in three in-depth round-table sessions where your expertise and ideas are essential.
  3. Gain fresh insights
    Learn from different perspectives on climate action, enabling environments and water security innovations.
  4. Contribute to global impact
    Help define the Dutch water sector’s contribution to international water and climate discussions, including the 2026 UN Water Conference.