Florian Strasser appointed CEO Champion for World Bank Youth Innovation Challenge

Florian Strasser, CEO and Chairman of the Board of GWF AG, has been appointed CEO Champion for the World Bank Youth Innovation Challenge. The 44-year-old member of the Swiss UNGC Board, entrepreneur, and investor will support this year’s Challenge with his network and expertise.

The World Bank Youth Innovation Challenge was launched at the UN Climate Conference (COP 28) in December 2023 and will run until October 2024. It is a joint initiative of the World Bank’s Solutions for Youth Employment (S4YE) program and the Water Global Practice’s Utility of the Future Program. Young entrepreneurs from the water sector have the unique opportunity to present their business ideas to the World Bank and selected CEOs of the water industry.

Global water challenges require localized innovative solutions, presenting an opportunity for youth to pioneer new ideas for the sector
The world is facing a water crisis: Globally, approximately 2 billion people do not have access to safely managed drinking water services and, by 2030, about half of the world’s population will live in water scarce areas. Water stresses—such as gaps in access to water supply and sanitation—have further exacerbated the water crisis, especially in low- and middle-income countries. As a result, there is a growing demand for innovative approaches that enable sustainable use of water resources. A major challenge lies in the fact that effective solutions can vary depending on local conditions. “The problem is global – but the solution must be adapted to local circumstances,” says Strasser. Therefore, the topic of water offers excellent opportunities for innovative young entrepreneurs.

“This initiative is a great opportunity to inspire more young professionals worldwide about the topic of water and to provide them with support so that they can be successful with their ideas,” says Strasser. “I am looking forward to contributing to the success of this initiative.”

A team of specialist water experts, aiming to solve water challenges
Since the successful generational change in 2014, Florian Strasser and his team implemented a transformative agenda, making substantial investments into new technologies, innovative products, and dynamic business models across the water and energy sectors. GWF has not only broadened its global partnership network but also established itself as a technology leader for water and wastewater infrastructure projects worldwide. As an expert in the water industry, Strasser knows: “The challenges associated with water and the energy transition are so significant that they can only be addressed through collaborative efforts within a network. That’s why I’m particularly looking forward to getting to know promising young personalities through the Youth Innovation Challenge.”