Water4, Inc. Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Water4, Inc. is an international nonprofit organization headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, dedicated to providing sustainable access to safe water across Sub-Saharan Africa. Established in 2008 by Dick and Terri Greenly, the organization leverages a market-based approach to address the global water crisis. By empowering local entrepreneurs to operate water businesses, Water4 aims to deliver reliable water services and foster economic development within communities.

Mission and Vision

Water4's mission is to build and scale durable, market-based water businesses that create more: safe water access, economic opportunity, virtue, and purpose across Africa. Their vision is a world where every home, school, and clinic has access to safe water, always.

Primary Area of Focus

The organization focuses on Sub-Saharan Africa, where millions lack access to safe water. By establishing local water businesses, Water4 aims to provide sustainable water solutions and promote economic growth in these regions.

Industry Significance

Water4 plays a crucial role in addressing the global water crisis by implementing innovative, market-based solutions. Their approach not only provides immediate access to safe water but also empowers local communities economically, contributing to long-term sustainability and development.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Sustainable Water Access: Establish and maintain water businesses that provide continuous access to safe water.

Economic Empowerment: Create job opportunities and stimulate local economies through the operation of water businesses.

Community Engagement: Involve local communities in the management and maintenance of water services to ensure sustainability.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Market-Based Water Solutions: Develop and implement business models that deliver safe water services at affordable prices.

Entrepreneurship Development: Equip local entrepreneurs with the skills and resources needed to operate water businesses.

Community Health and Education: Provide training in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices to improve public health.

Key Technologies Utilized

NUMA Franchise Model: A modular, scalable piped water system adaptable to various community sizes and needs.

Water Treatment Technologies: Advanced filtration and purification methods to ensure water safety.

Mobile Payment Systems: Facilitate affordable access to water through innovative payment solutions.

Primary Markets Targeted

Water4 primarily targets rural and peri-urban communities in Sub-Saharan Africa, where access to safe water is limited. By focusing on these areas, the organization aims to address the most pressing water access challenges.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Water4 has received substantial funding from various sources, including grants from foundations and individual donors. Notable grants include:

The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust: $1,673,164 awarded in June 2024 to scale a safely managed water service delivery model in Wassa East and surrounding communities.

Conrad N. Hilton Foundation: $1,600,000 awarded in May 2025 to extend the provision of safely managed water to low-income communities in rural Western Ghana.

The Signatry / Servant Foundation: $1,501,000 awarded in May 2025 for community development initiatives.

Total Funds Raised

As of December 2023, Water4 reported total revenues of $9,444,707, with total expenses of $9,025,404, indicating a strong financial position to support its operations and expansion efforts.

Utilization of Capital

The funds are primarily utilized for:

Infrastructure Development: Building and maintaining water systems, including piped networks and treatment facilities.

Entrepreneurship Support: Providing training and resources to local entrepreneurs to operate water businesses.

Community Engagement: Conducting WASH training programs and community outreach to ensure sustainable water access.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Water4's pipeline development focuses on expanding its NUMA Franchise Model across Sub-Saharan Africa. Key initiatives include:

Wassa East, Ghana: Scaling the water service delivery model to demonstrate financial viability and long-term sustainability.

Western Ghana: Extending the provision of safely managed water to low-income communities in rural households.

Kabarole, Uganda: Extending existing healthcare facility water connections to households.

Stages of Development

These initiatives are in various stages, from planning and funding to implementation and scaling, with timelines ranging from 12 to 48 months.

Target Conditions

The focus is on providing safe water access to underserved communities, improving public health, and fostering economic development.

Anticipated Milestones

Infrastructure Completion: Establishing water systems in targeted regions.

Community Engagement: Training local entrepreneurs and community members.

Sustainability Assessment: Evaluating the financial viability and long-term impact of water services.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

NUMA Franchise Model: A modular, scalable piped water system adaptable to various community sizes and needs.

Significant Scientific Methods

Water Treatment Technologies: Advanced filtration and purification methods to ensure water safety.

Mobile Payment Systems: Facilitate affordable access to water through innovative payment solutions.

AI-Driven Capabilities

While specific AI-driven capabilities are not detailed, Water4's use of data analytics and mobile technologies suggests a commitment to leveraging technology for operational efficiency and community engagement.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Matt Hangen: President and CEO.

Richard Greenly: Founder.

Terri Greenly: Founder.

Richard Moore: Managing Director of NUMA.

Matt Woll: Director of Development.

Randy Webb: Director of Finance.

Sylvester Adjapong: Director of Innovation and Operations, NUMA.

Chris Shaw: Director of Marketing & Communications.

Chad Missildine: Key Relationships Director.

Brian Glover: Special Assistant to President & CEO.

Carmen Brubacher: CEO of NUMA Zambia.

John Campbell: CEO of NUMA Sierra Leone.

Ahmed Yekini: Regional Director of NUMA Northern Ghana.

Professional Backgrounds and Contributions

The leadership team comprises individuals with diverse backgrounds in nonprofit management, business development, finance, innovation, marketing, and community engagement. Their collective expertise drives Water4's mission to provide sustainable water solutions across Africa.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for safe water solutions in Sub-Saharan Africa is characterized by a significant need for sustainable and affordable water access. While numerous organizations operate in this space, Water4's unique market-based approach distinguishes it from traditional charity models.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include other NGOs and social enterprises focused on water access, such as WaterAid, charity: water, and Water.org. These organizations also aim to provide safe water solutions but may differ in their operational models, funding sources, and geographic focus.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Water4 has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its impact, including collaborations with organizations like CannedWater4Kids to bring safe water to children across Africa.

Operational Insights

Water4's market-based approach, focusing on local entrepreneurship and sustainable business models, provides a competitive advantage by ensuring long-term water access and economic development within communities.

water4,-inc.