About This Program

Goals of the Recognition
The Utility of the Future Today (UotFT) Recognition Program celebrates water utilities that are advancing resource efficiency and recovery, building proactive relationships with stakeholders, and helping create resilient, sustainable, and livable communities.

As water systems across the country transform their operations through innovation and technology, the UotFT model offers utilities of all sizes a framework for more efficient operations, enhanced productivity, and long-term sustainability. Since the program launched in 2016, more than 200 utilities have been recognized.

UotFT 2026 Application Process
The UotFT 2026 recognition program requires applicants to download and complete the UotFT 2026 application form and submit it via https://wef.secure-platform.com/a/solicitations/405/home between March 5 and May 7, 2026, 11:59 ET, with notifications sent by June 11, 2026. Selected honorees will be recognized at a ceremony during WEFTEC 2026 in New Orleans, LA, and will receive a Certificate of Recognition, a banner, and a 2026 flag. While we hope to see all recognized honorees at WEFTEC, however, attendance is not required for recognition. Questions can be directed to UtilityRecognition@wef.org.

Collaborative Effort
The Utility of the Future Today Recognition Program is a collaborative effort by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA), The Water Environment Federation (WEF), the Water Research Foundation (WRF), WateReuse Association, and the the U.S. Water Alliance — with input from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE). 

To learn more, visit https://www.wef.org/utility-of-the-future/ or contact UtilityRecognition@wef.org.