In environments where resources are scarce, frugal innovation has positioned itself as an approach with the potential to respond to social and environmental crises. Innovators in BoP countries are making interesting contributions to the development of ingenious and affordable frugal solutions focused on improving the quality of life of BoP communities. Research on frugal innovation has provided insight into its origins, lists of design criteria and attributes. However, there is still a lack of understanding about this approach to innovation seen as a process and the most important strategies at each stage. Applying the case study methodology, we conducted an exploratory analysis of the development of a water access solution in Mexico. The water crisis is a global and urgent problem, especially in marginalized areas. Through semi-structured in-depth semi-structured interviews and an analysis and mapping of a frugal innovation, process was carried out. This study offers a descriptive model of a frugal innovation process developed. A list of frugal innovation strategies implemented is also presented. The exploratory nature of a single case limits generalization. However, the results offer valuable findings for future research. The model presented can serve as support for projects that aim to innovate in a frugal way.