Denver-based drinking water company FloWater has been recognized for its efforts to educate consumers and spark conversations about the future of drinking water.
The company was named a Gold Winner in the 23rd annual International Business Awards, part of the Stevie Awards, receiving the distinction of Thought Leadership Organization of the Year in the Business Services category.
The recognition comes as FloWater continues to position itself as a voice on issues affecting drinking water, including PFAS, microplastics, hydration, water quality and sustainability.
Founded as a challenger brand in the water industry, FloWater has expanded its focus beyond its Refill Stations to address broader questions about what people drink and the environmental impact of single-use bottled water.
Since making thought leadership a formal business strategy in 2024, the company has worked to establish its executives as resources on drinking water and sustainability issues. CEO and co-founder Rich “Raz” Razgaitis has appeared on more than 35 television broadcasts nationwide, including Scripps News, while the company has also received national coverage from FOX Business.
Razgaitis has taken the conversation to major events, including NYC Climate Week and the Sun Valley Forum, where he has discussed the future of drinking water and the challenges facing the industry.
FloWater has also paired its educational efforts with community initiatives. Through a partnership with the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, founded by Stephen and Ayesha Curry, and the Oakland Unified School District, the company installed Refill Stations designed to increase access to drinking water for students.
The company has also announced a permanent clean-water infrastructure investment for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, adding to its efforts to support communities seeking greater access to trusted drinking water.
Environmental impact remains another major part of FloWater’s mission. The company says its Refill Stations have helped eliminate more than 1 billion single-use plastic bottles from oceans, rivers, lakes and landfills.
Education has extended to younger audiences as well. FloWater supported the publication of Razgaitis’ children’s book, Clean Water is Awesome, No Really, which introduces students and families to issues surrounding clean water and sustainability.
Shay Trukov, FloWater’s vice president of marketing, said the Stevie recognition reflects the company’s strategy of combining thought leadership with brand building and business growth.
Razgaitis said the company’s goal extends beyond creating an alternative to bottled water, emphasizing the importance of changing how people think about drinking water and expanding access to quality water.
With its latest award, FloWater is receiving recognition not only for its products but also for its efforts to make drinking water quality and sustainability part of a larger public conversation.