Livable Futures — Water
Innovation for Michigan’s Most Vital Resource
Michigan’s research universities are joining forces to protect and enhance our freshwater systems — building resilient communities, equitable economies, and sustainable water futures across the Great Lakes state.
About This initiative
Livable Futures – Water: A Seed for Statewide Collaboration
Michigan stands at a critical moment. With abundant freshwater resources and world-class research institutions, the state is uniquely positioned to lead in developing sustainable, resilient water systems that support people, ecosystems, and economies alike.
The Livable Futures – Water Collaboration Grants are designed to spark interdisciplinary, multi-university research that addresses Michigan’s most pressing water challenges. Supported by $400,000 in seed funding, the initiative will fund projects that bring together at least three of the state’s four major research universities to design innovative, actionable solutions.
FOCUS AREAS INCLUDE:
- Protecting lakes and waterways while ensuring access to clean, affordable water
- Reimagining water infrastructure for climate resilience
- Managing flood and coastal risk for communities
- Advancing Michigan’s “blue economy” for sustainable growth
Explore the May 5, 2025 Report
Why It Matters
Protecting Water, Empowering Communities
Water touches every part of life in Michigan — our health, our environment, our jobs, and our identity. Yet, changing climate conditions, aging infrastructure, and inequitable access threaten this shared resource.
The Livable Futures – Water initiative positions Michigan to:
- Strengthen infrastructure with new technology and research-based practices.
- Grow the economy by driving clean-tech innovation and blue-sector jobs.
- Ensure equity by connecting solutions to community needs and lived experience.
News & Stories
The Latest Updates
Michigan’s Research Universities Unite to Tackle State’s Toughest Water Challenges
Scientists from Michigan’s top research universities are joining forces to grapple with complex water, climate and energy problems confronting the...
Michigan’s research universities unite to tackle the state’s water, climate and energy future
LANSING, Mich. – In recognition of Climate Week and the urgent need to address complex environmental and economic challenges, Research...
Collaborative Models in Action
The Michigan Center for Freshwater Innovation (MCFI)
The Michigan Center for Freshwater Innovation is a powerful example of the collaborative spirit driving this initiative. A partnership among Michigan State University, Michigan Technological University, the University of Michigan, Wayne State University, the Great Lakes Water Authority, and regional partners, MCFI brings together science, engineering, and policy to solve real-world water challenges.