helps us to foster water conservation and education
The Permanent Forum of Binational Waters is a binational and multidisciplinary non-profit organization comprised of scientists and experts dedicated to integrating collaboration…
What you’re funding
The Permanent Forum of Binational Waters is a binational and multidisciplinary non-profit organization comprised of scientists and experts dedicated to integrating collaboration efforts and improve the water resilience of vulnerable communities in the Mexico-US border through effective communication, targeted education programs and research.
The organization just celebrated 5 years of operation, but financial health is crucial to sustaining our programs and impact. Over the past five years, we received $275, 345.00 USD from donations, grants and contracts, which we have strategically used to maximize results. Our annual fixed expenses amount to around $45,000.00. In 2024 and 2025, we attained the 2024 and 2025 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency, the highest level of transparency and accountability a nonprofit organization can achieve. In the future months, due to recent budget cuts under the current federal administration, the Permanent Forum of Binational Waters may be facing significant financial challenges to meet its fixed expenses, including essential program costs. With no active income sources, we are at risk of reducing or pausing critical services. We are actively seeking funding and exploring new fundraising efforts to ensure we can continue serving our community. We welcome any support or ideas to help us sustain our mission during this difficult time.
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About Permanent Forum Of Binational Water
At the Permanent Forum of Binational Water, the work stays close to the real stuff, shared water, shared borders, and the practical choices communities have to make. Since 2019, it has used applied research, education, and science communication to support border communities and the organizations that serve them. For donors, the case is straightforward: this is an organization built to turn water science into something people can actually use. Its programs reach scientists, policymakers, businesses, universities, public utilities, and community members, which gives its work a rare breadth without losing the local focus.
What stands out here is the mix of research, bilingual education, science communication, and binational convening, all centered on shared water resources along the U.S.-Mexico border. It is built to bring different kinds of people into the same conversation, including through English-Spanish programming and accessible events.
About this work
In their own words — what they do, who it reaches, and what your dollars actually fund.
Mission
To improve water and environmental resilience of border communities through scientific research, communication, and education.
Who they serve
Scientists, policymakers, businesses, public and private organizations, universities, public utilities, and border communities along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Their impact
- Hosted nearly 10 Science Talks since 2019
- Worked with around 30 scientists in Science Talks
- Hosted nearly 20 Coffee Break events
- Worked with nearly 50 speakers from both countries in Coffee Breaks
- Received $275,345 in donations, grants, and contracts over the past five years
How your donation helps
- Research projects on shared water resources
- Policy advocacy and collaboration with communities on both sides of the border
- Education programs and bilingual water courses
- Science Talks, Coffee Breaks, and other science communication initiatives
Programs
Applied research for public and private organizations
Designs, develops, and implements research projects to address specific water challenges at local or regional scale.
Education and training
Provides community education and organizational capacity-building, online or in person.
Science communication
Develops initiatives, podcasts, streams, and other media to make science accessible.
Certification programs for businesses
Promotes best water management practices at transboundary scale.
Research and consultancy services
Offers science-based advice on international waters, surface water, groundwater, ecosystems, and transboundary governance.
Water footprint assessment and certification
Assesses, reduces, and manages water footprint for businesses, organizations, and public agencies.
Binational Institute water courses
Provides bilingual water courses for individuals, universities, companies, and public utilities in Mexico and the United States.
Science Talks
Hosts research-focused talks with young professionals and researchers on water challenges and solutions, held once every other month.
Coffee Breaks
Runs bilingual, accessible discussions on water science and policy with experts from both sides of the border.
Transboundary Aquifers Pilot Program
Develops cooperation, knowledge, recommendations, communication strategies, and monitoring for the Allende-Piedras Negras transboundary aquifer.
Women in Water
Produces conversations and podcast content on women shaping water dialogue, cooperation, and decision-making across shared waters.
People, Water and Science working groups
Connects researchers, officials, and professionals in collaborative groups focused on shared water resources.
Events
Science Talks
Once every other monthResearch-focused talks featuring young professionals and researchers on water challenges and solutions.
Coffee Breaks
RecurringBilingual discussions that make water science and policy accessible to experts and community members.
Women in Water
RecurringPodcast and conversation series focused on women in water diplomacy and governance.
Webinars on interconnected surface waters and groundwater
November and December 2024Two webinars held with the International Association for Water Law on hydrologic realities and delusions in water regulation.
Public hearings on shared groundwater
April 9, 2024Public hearings on the Allende Piedras Negras–Maverick aquifer with community participation.
Ways to help
Current needs
- Funding to cover fixed expenses and essential program costs
- Sponsors for Science Talks and Coffee Breaks
- Support for research, education, and shared waters initiatives
Recognition & press
Awards & recognition
- 2024 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency
- 2025 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency
Press & mentions
Partners & funders
Full Permanent Forum Of Binational Water profile → · IRS filing (ProPublica)