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RFPs: Water for Life Photography Grant Program 2026

Deadline: 15-Jan-2026

The Photo Humanity Grant’s Water for Life Photography Program supports photographers in creating impactful projects addressing water-related challenges. Ten grants of $6,000 USD each are available for projects demonstrating creativity, authenticity, and a focus on vulnerable regions. Winners receive mentorship, retain full image rights, and contribute to raising awareness about water crises globally.

Overview of the Grant

The Water for Life Photography Grant Program aims to:

  • Support photographers in developing cohesive photographic projects

  • Highlight communities affected by water scarcity, vulnerability, conflict, or displacement

  • Encourage creative storytelling that aligns with the applicant’s artistic vision

  • Provide mentorship and guidance from international photographers

Each grant is $6,000 USD, designated exclusively for executing the photography project.

Who is Eligible

  • Professional or emerging photographers worldwide

  • Projects must be:

    • Initiated after 2023

    • Not previously awarded or funded by other grants

    • Comprised of authentic photography (no AI-generated or manipulated additions/removals)

Key Requirements

  • Submit a portfolio of previous work in PDF format (mandatory)

  • Submit an initial draft of the photography project with 10–20 images

  • Provide a project concept via the submission form

  • Images may include color or monochrome photography and demonstrate creative capturing and editing techniques

  • RAW images may be requested at the evaluation stage

  • Winners retain full ownership rights; Photo Humanity Grant may use images for promotional purposes

Focus Areas

  • Geographic regions with water scarcity intersecting with vulnerability, conflict, or displacement

  • Projects emphasizing collaboration or partnership with local organizations

  • Consideration of photographer safety and accessibility

  • Alignment with global resources such as:

    • UN Clean Water and Sanitation

    • UN Global Issues: Water

    • UN Water SDG 6 Data Portal and Progress Reports

Funding and Support

  • Number of grants: 10

  • Grant amount: $6,000 USD each

  • Mentorship: Winners receive guidance from international photographers during project execution

  • Funding supports only the execution of the photographic project

How to Apply

Step 1: Registration

  • Complete the free registration form

  • Receive the application form on-screen and via email

Step 2: Prepare Application

  • Submit project concept describing theme, significance, and location

  • Include a portfolio of previous work (10 images minimum)

  • Initial draft of project images (10–20 images, optional but recommended)

Step 3: Submit

  • Submit application form and portfolio before the deadline

  • Ensure authenticity and adherence to grant guidelines

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: January 15th, 2026 (extended)

  • Finalist Selection: January 25th, 2026

  • Project Delivery Deadline: April 25th, 2026

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting projects that started before 2023

  • Submitting AI-manipulated or inauthentic images

  • Omitting the mandatory portfolio of previous work

  • Not providing a project concept

  • Missing deadlines or failing to submit in PDF/MP4 format

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is eligible to apply?
Photographers worldwide with projects initiated after 2023 and not previously funded.

2. How many grants are available and what is the amount?
Ten grants of $6,000 USD each.

3. What types of images are accepted?
Authentic photography only; monochrome or color; no AI-generated modifications.

4. Is a portfolio required?
Yes, a portfolio of previous works (PDF format) is mandatory.

5. Can early-stage projects be submitted?
Yes, initial drafts of 10–20 images are accepted; they do not need to be final.

6. Who retains ownership of images?
The photographer retains full ownership rights; Photo Humanity Grant may use images for promotion.

7. Are there mentorship opportunities?
Yes, winners receive mentorship from international photographers during project execution.

Conclusion

The Water for Life Photography Grant Program by Photo Humanity empowers photographers to create impactful, authentic projects addressing global water challenges. By supporting creative storytelling and providing financial assistance and mentorship, the program promotes awareness, collaboration, and positive social impact in regions where water scarcity intersects with vulnerability, conflict, or displacement. Projects funded through this grant contribute to both artistic excellence and meaningful humanitarian advocacy.

For more information, visit Photo Humanity Grant.