The Wasser:N networking and transfer project was launched by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) under grant number 02WAN1540. Its core aim was to create a unified brand for the transdisciplinary research programme Wasser:N, to raise public awareness about the importance of clean water, and to foster dialogue between scientists, industry, authorities and the wider public. The project was executed by the agency facts and fiction GmbH, with a consortium of academic partners, research institutes, and industry stakeholders contributing to the development of communication materials and outreach activities.

From a technical and scientific perspective, the project produced a comprehensive corporate identity that aligns with the government’s own design guidelines. This identity was applied consistently across all media, ensuring that the Wasser:N brand could be recognised by policymakers, researchers, and the general public alike. The team developed a suite of print and digital communication tools, including brochures, flyers, and QR‑coded business cards that directed users to further information about the programme. These materials were made available in both print and online formats, with accessible versions to reach a broad audience. The project also produced a series of interactive exhibits for the IFAT trade fair, the world’s leading platform for water, wastewater, waste, and resource management. Although the 2020 IFAT event was cancelled due to the COVID‑19 pandemic, the team successfully redesigned and installed a stand for the 2022 fair, which attracted nearly 120 000 visitors. The exhibits showcased the integrated research projects under Wasser:N and facilitated hands‑on engagement, thereby reinforcing the programme’s scientific relevance and societal impact.

The project’s performance metrics are reflected in its resource allocation and outreach reach. Sixty‑point‑one‑one percent of the funding was directed to personnel costs, while the remaining funds covered subcontracting, travel, and material expenses. The IFAT 2022 stand alone generated significant visibility, with interactive displays creating a memorable experience for attendees and encouraging further dialogue. The project’s communication strategy also included the creation of a dedicated website and social‑media presence, which amplified the reach of the printed materials and provided a platform for ongoing engagement with stakeholders.

Collaboration was a cornerstone of the Wasser:N initiative. The consortium brought together experts from academia, industry, and public administration, each contributing to the development of the brand, the design of communication tools, and the execution of outreach events. The project’s timeline spanned from the initial baseline creation and information gathering to the final deployment of the IFAT stand. While the COVID‑19 pandemic forced a shift from planned live events to multimedia formats, the team adapted by enhancing digital outreach and maintaining momentum through virtual engagement. The BMBF’s funding facilitated these adaptations, allowing the project to remain on schedule despite the disruptions.

In summary, the Wasser:N networking and transfer project successfully established a strong, coherent brand identity and produced a range of communication materials that effectively conveyed the programme’s scientific objectives to a diverse audience. Through strategic collaboration and adaptive outreach, the project fostered dialogue across sectors, amplified public understanding of water sustainability, and positioned Wasser:N as a leading initiative in sustainable water research.