IWA is a charity governed by a board of trustees.
There are several national committees that report to the board of trustees:
- Canalway Cavalcade Committee
- Events Committee
- Finance Committee
- Management Committee
- Navigation Committee
- Remuneration Committee
- Waterway Recovery Group
- Volunteers Awards Panel.
The members of these committees are appointed by trustees, usually by approving recommendations from the committees themselves following advertisement for members. A full list of trustees, paid staff and the current membership of each committee is available.