Denmark to host new Pan-European water hub

EIT Water, a new European water innovation centre, will be headquartered in Aarhus to accelerate solutions for water management and climate resilience.

Marselisborg Wastewater Treatment Plant located in the outskirts of Aarhus.

By State of Green | [email protected]

13 November 2025

Denmark has been selected as the home for EIT Water, a new pan-European knowledge and innovation community focused on advancing water technology, addressing climate change, and fostering sustainable water systems across Europe. The centre will be based in the upcoming Vandets Hus (The House of Water) on Aarhus harbour, and is set to connect businesses, researchers, and innovators to tackle critical challenges facing water resources globally.

EIT Water, established under the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), will drive innovation in water management, including clean water, wastewater treatment, and marine ecosystems. The centre is expected to generate new technologies, support entrepreneurship, and promote scalable solutions to mitigate climate-related water stress.

Information about the project

EIT Water is a new initiative established under the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), aimed at advancing innovation in water technology across Europe. Headquartered in Aarhus, Denmark, with additional Co-Location Centres across Europe, EIT Water will focus on tackling global water challenges such as clean water, wastewater management, and marine ecosystems. It is supported by a €5 million start-up grant and is expected to raise several hundred million euros over the next 15 years. The initiative will foster collaboration between businesses, research institutions, and public sector partners to drive sustainable water solutions and create new opportunities for entrepreneurship.

Allwaters is the Danish-led consortium that successfully won the bid to host EIT Water. The consortium consists of over 50 partners, including Aarhus University, Grundfos, Danfoss, Water Valley Denmark, and many others. Allwaters aims to connect research, innovation, and industry across Europe, creating synergies to address the pressing issues of climate change and water resource management. With a strong network of partners and a focus on circular economy and sustainability, Allwaters is committed to strengthening Europe’s leadership in water technology.

Strengthening Denmark’s global leadership in water technology

Denmark’s strong water sector will play a key role in the success of EIT Water. With the support of partners such as Grundfos, Danfoss, DI, Water Valley Denmark, DANVA, HOFOR, Aarhus Vand, Aalborg University, the University of Southern Denmark, Aarsleff, SEGES and Kamstrup, the centre will stand as a symbol for Denmark’s position as a leader in global water technology innovation.

“We are proud that Denmark will host the headquarters of EIT Water. This recognition underscores our leadership in water technology and reflects the strong collaborative efforts of Danish universities, businesses, and organisations,” said Eskild Holm Nielsen, Dean of the Faculty of Technical Sciences at Aarhus University.

Expanding European collaboration in water solutions

EIT Water will consist of eight Co-location centres across Europe, including one in Aarhus. These centres will collaborate with local innovation networks to drive forward water-related entrepreneurship, research, and technology development. The Nordic Co-Location Centre, focused on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, will be an essential part of building stronger regional partnerships.

“EIT Water will be a tremendous catalyst for further innovation in the water sector, addressing urgent challenges like pollution, droughts, and climate change,” said Michelle Williams, Vice-Dean at Aarhus University and coordinator for the Allwaters consortium.

With a €5 million start-up grant from EIT and expected funding of several hundred million euros over 15 years, EIT Water is set to become a key player in Europe’s water innovation landscape, creating lasting impact for both the continent and the global community.