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 up to $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 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.
Collaborative Models in Action
Innovation in Motion: 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.
What MCFI Does:
Develops and deploys “smart” stormwater and water-main monitoring systems
Advances PFAS detection and treatment research
Uses big data to optimize wastewater recovery and reuse
Trains community partners in water testing and filter maintenance
Recent stories
Explore MCFI Project
Get Involved
Your Expertise Can Shape Michigan’s Future
If you’re a faculty researcher at one of Michigan’s four leading research universities, this is your opportunity to join a statewide effort to make a tangible difference.
How to participate:
- Build a team spanning at least three RU4M institutions.
- Engage with community, industry, or municipal partners.
- Submit your proposal by December 1, 2025 for projects beginning February 1, 2026.
Ready to Apply?
Award range
$60,000–$80,000 per project
Total available funding
$400,000 in FY26
Team requirement
Three or more participating universities
Project launch
February 1, 2026