Evaluation Report: Evaluation of Finnish Water Forum’s program period 2023–2025 and recommendations for the next program period

Finnish Water Forum (FWF) operates as a domestic network for the water sector. FWF promotes collaboration and expertise among Finnish water sector actors, as well as international activities, development cooperation, and water-related exports. The 2023–2025 program period was evaluated at the end of 2025.

According to the evaluation, FWF has strengthened its brand both nationally and internationally and has been effective in networking, advocacy, and communication. FWF has successfully positioned itself as a trusted actor. New members have joined, and significant partnerships have been established. Public Sector Investment Facility (PIF) projects and initiatives related to Ukraine demonstrate the ability to create new business opportunities.

Challenges include changes in the operating environment, such as a significant reduction in public funding for development cooperation and export promotion. Human resources are limited, and the current funding model consumes considerable management time. The strategy and the role of the board are sometimes perceived as unclear, and the breadth and heterogeneity of the membership make expectation management difficult.

Recommendations include launching a comprehensive strategic process, broadening the funding base, activating members, and clarifying the board’s role as a strategic driver. Additionally, the report emphasizes better integration of development policy perspectives, improving impact measurement and reporting, and sharpening the focus of activities.

Publication

Suomen Vesifoorumi ry:n kolmen vuoden ohjelman (2023–2025) evaluointi ja suositukset seuraavalle ohjelmakaudelle (PDF, 17 sivua, 1 MB, in Finnish)