The drinking water purification industry in the U.S. is vital for ensuring safe access to clean water nationwide. Companies in this sector typically range from innovative startups developing cutting-edge treatment technologies to established firms managing local water utilities. They offer a variety of solutions, including filtration systems, chemical treatments, and technology services. Recent trends emphasize sustainability and the use of advanced materials and processes to boost efficiency. With increased public awareness of water quality issues and regulatory demands, the industry is heading towards growth driven by innovation and infrastructure investment, alongside increased demand for cost-effective, effective purification methods.


This list highlights a mix of investors shaping the drinking water purification sector. Notable entities range from established corporates like the U.S. Department of Energy to new venture capital firms such as Echo River Capital. Headquartered primarily in major cities like Washington, D.C. and San Francisco, these investors vary in size and purpose; some are huge public organizations while others are nimble startups. In 2024, these investors collectively completed over 1,000 deals, indicating strong interest and growth potential in water purification technologies, vital for public health and environmental sustainability.


Top 13 Drinking Water Purification Investors in the US


1. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

  • Website: energy.gov
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 597
  • LinkedIn: u-s--department-of-energy

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is a public entity established in 1977, responsible for overseeing national energy policy, energy production, and nuclear power research. It serves various stakeholders, including government entities and the public, by providing guidance on energy efficiency, funding opportunities, and conducting research to address energy challenges. In recent years, the DOE has also engaged in funding initiatives that support drinking water purification technologies. Notable transactions include grants to Membrion, which raised $3,150,000 for its innovative water purification solutions, and Coastside County Water District, which received $300,000 to enhance its water treatment capabilities. These investments reflect the DOE's commitment to improving water quality and supporting technologies that contribute to public health and environmental sustainability.


2. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In recent years, the Government of Canada has made significant investments in the drinking water purification sector. Notably, they provided a grant of $3 million to Acuva Technologies, which specializes in water purification solutions. Additionally, they invested over $4.5 million in E2metrix to support the development of technologies for recycling wastewater, which is crucial for sustainable water management. Other relevant transactions include grants to Saltworks Technologies and BQE Water, both of which are involved in innovative water treatment technologies. These investments highlight the Government of Canada's commitment to enhancing water quality and sustainability in Canada.


3. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies, helping entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses through structured programs and resources. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its diverse portfolio, Y Combinator has made notable investments in the drinking water sector, including Nebia, which focuses on water conservation through innovative shower heads, Valor Water Analytics, which specializes in water analytics solutions, and GiveMeTap, a company that sells water bottles to fund access to clean drinking water in Africa. These investments highlight Y Combinator's engagement with technologies and initiatives that contribute to drinking water purification and sustainability.


4. A. O. Smith Corporation

  • Website: aosmith.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1874
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: a.-o.-smith-corporation

A. O. Smith Corporation is a leading manufacturer specializing in water heating and treatment solutions, founded in 1874 and headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The company has a global presence and focuses on innovation and sustainability in its product offerings. In recent years, A. O. Smith has strategically expanded its portfolio in the drinking water purification sector through several key acquisitions. Notably, in 2016, they acquired Aquasana, a Texas-based water treatment company, for $87 million, enhancing their capabilities in residential and commercial water purification. In 2024, A. O. Smith further solidified its position by acquiring Pureit for $120 million, a move that underscores its commitment to the drinking water purification market. Other significant acquisitions include Hague Quality Water in 2017 for $44.5 million, Water-Right in 2019 for $107 million, and Atlantic Filter in 2022, all of which contribute to A. O. Smith's comprehensive approach to water treatment solutions. These transactions highlight A. O. Smith's active role in the drinking water purification industry, making it a relevant investor in this space.


5. Echo River Capital

  • Website: echorivercap.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2022
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: echo-river-cap

Echo River Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2022. The firm specializes in early-stage water technology companies and is committed to impact investing to tackle global water challenges. They provide both capital and strategic support to innovative startups in the water sector. Among their notable transactions, Echo River Capital participated in the Seed funding rounds for Uravu Labs, which raised $2.3 million to commercialize renewable water solutions, and Active Membranes, which raised approximately $2.3 million for its water technology initiatives. Additionally, they have invested in Kairospace Technologies and Aclarity, both of which are likely involved in water management and purification technologies. This focus on water technology positions Echo River Capital as a significant player in the drinking water purification landscape.


6. American Water

  • Website: amwater.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Camden, New Jersey, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1886
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 34
  • LinkedIn: american-water

American Water is a public entity founded in 1886, headquartered in Camden, New Jersey, that provides essential water and wastewater services to approximately 3.4 million customers across the United States. The company operates in the water utility industry, ensuring a clean and safe water supply while managing wastewater treatment. Their services cater to residential, commercial, and governmental clients, emphasizing community support and environmental stewardship. In recent years, American Water has been actively involved in acquiring various water systems to enhance their service capabilities. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Appalachian Utilities, where they plan to invest over $6.5 million to upgrade water infrastructure, and the acquisition of Audubon Water Company for approximately $8 million, aimed at improving service for 2,900 customers. These strategic moves highlight their commitment to improving drinking water quality and infrastructure, reinforcing their role in the drinking water purification industry.


7. MassVentures

  • Website: mass-ventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Waltham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1978
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 28
  • LinkedIn: massventures

MassVentures is a venture studio based in Waltham, Massachusetts, founded in 1978. The firm specializes in supporting early-stage companies, particularly those focused on deep tech innovation. They provide a range of funding options, including venture capital and grants, along with business guidance and accelerator programs. MassVentures primarily serves startups looking to commercialize their research and technology. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Aclarity, which raised $15.9 million in Series A funding to develop solutions for PFAS contamination, a significant issue in drinking water purification. They have also provided grants to ZwitterCo and Harmony Desalting, both of which are involved in water treatment technologies. These investments highlight MassVentures' commitment to supporting innovations in the drinking water purification sector.


8. US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

  • Website: epa.gov
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1970
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 54
  • LinkedIn: us-epa

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a public entity founded in 1970, based in Washington, D.C., focused on environmental protection. The agency plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with environmental laws and promoting sustainable practices. In 2024, the EPA has been involved in 54 investments, primarily through grants aimed at enhancing environmental quality. Notably, the EPA has funded several projects relevant to drinking water purification, such as grants to Aquagga, Inc. for $500,000 in January 2022 and $40,000 in May 2021, which likely support innovations in water treatment technologies. Additionally, the agency provided $1,800,000 to the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts in July 2023, further indicating its commitment to improving water quality and sanitation. These transactions highlight the EPA's active role in supporting initiatives that contribute to drinking water purification and environmental health.


9. Elemental Impact


Elemental Impact is a not-for-profit organization based in Honolulu, Hawaii, founded in 2012. The organization is dedicated to scaling climate technologies that have a significant community impact. They provide funding opportunities, community engagement strategies, and educational resources to support climate technology companies and local governments in deploying sustainable solutions. In recent years, Elemental Impact has been involved in several funding rounds for companies that operate in the drinking water purification space, such as Microvi Biotechnologies, which focuses on innovative water treatment solutions, and Cambrian Innovation, known for its advanced wastewater treatment technologies. These transactions highlight Elemental Impact's commitment to fostering partnerships that enhance community benefits through sustainable water solutions, although their broader mission encompasses various climate technologies beyond just drinking water purification.


10. IFC - International Finance Corporation

  • Website: ifc.org
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1956
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 107
  • LinkedIn: ifclinkedin

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a not-for-profit organization established in 1956, headquartered in Washington, D.C. It focuses on private sector development in emerging markets by providing investment, advisory, and asset management services to businesses and financial institutions. IFC operates in over 100 countries, addressing poverty and promoting sustainable development. Among its notable transactions, IFC invested in Aqualyng, which raised $31,400,000 in a venture round in 2012, indicating a focus on water purification technologies. Additionally, IFC's involvement with companies like dloHaiti and its financing activities with utilities such as Sabesp and Georgia Global Utilities demonstrate its commitment to enhancing water access and infrastructure, further solidifying its role in the drinking water purification sector.


11. DXP Enterprises, Inc.

  • Website: dxpe.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1908
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: dxp-enterprises-inc-

DXP Enterprises, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Houston, Texas, founded in 1908. The company operates as an industrial distributor, providing a diverse range of products and services across various sectors, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and renewable energy. Recently, DXP has significantly expanded its footprint in the drinking water purification industry through strategic acquisitions. In 2024, they acquired Hennesy Mechanical Sales, a manufacturer representative in the municipal water and wastewater treatment market, to bolster their DXP Water platform. Additionally, they acquired Premier Water, a distributor focused on water and wastewater treatment in the Carolinas, and Sullivan Environmental Technologies, which also specializes in the water and wastewater industry. Most recently, they acquired Kappe Associates, further solidifying their presence in the water purification sector. These transactions highlight DXP's commitment to enhancing its service capabilities and operational efficiency in the drinking water purification market.


12. Watts Water Technologies

  • Website: watts.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: North Andover, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1874
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • LinkedIn: watts-water-technologies

Watts Water Technologies, founded in 1874 and based in North Andover, Massachusetts, is a corporate investor specializing in plumbing and HVAC solutions. The company offers a comprehensive range of products for water management, heating, and drainage systems, serving contractors, builders, and facility managers across residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Watts has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its capabilities in the water purification sector, including the acquisition of Alamo Water Refiners' water softener business in 2005, which generates approximately $13 million in annual revenue. Additionally, the acquisition of HF Scientific in 2005 further enhances its portfolio in water quality testing and treatment solutions. These transactions reflect Watts' commitment to providing essential solutions for water purification and management, reinforcing its position as a key player in the industry.


13. Kkr

  • Website: kkr.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1976
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 74
  • LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR provides asset management solutions to institutional investors and individual clients, helping them navigate complex investment landscapes. The firm has a global reach and extensive expertise in various sectors. Notably, KKR has made significant investments in the drinking water purification industry, including the acquisition of South Staffordshire Group, which serves 1.6 million people in England, and a 25% stake in Northumbrian Water Group, further solidifying their presence in the water sector. Additionally, KKR partnered with CITIC to acquire United Envirotech, a Singapore-based water treatment company, for $1.5 billion, enhancing their footprint in China's water and wastewater treatment market. These transactions highlight KKR's active role in the drinking water purification industry.



Drinking Water Purification Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+1977597
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
A. O. Smith CorporationMilwaukee, Wisconsin, United States (USA)10001+18743
Echo River CapitalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-1020225
American WaterCamden, New Jersey, United States (USA)5001-10000188634
MassVenturesWaltham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)1-10197828
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+197054
Elemental ImpactHonolulu, Hawaii, United States (USA)51-200201219
IFC - International Finance CorporationWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-50001956107
DXP Enterprises, Inc.Houston, Texas, United States (USA)1001-500019086
Watts Water TechnologiesNorth Andover, Massachusetts, United States (USA)5001-1000018740
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674


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