A waterborne poly(alkynyl carbamate) prepolymer is provided which comprises a reaction product of a polyisocyanate comprising a first portion and a second portion of isocyanate groups; an isocyanate-reactive component comprising 0.1 mol % to 6 mol % of a C10-C50 glycol ether; and 99.9 mol % to 94 mol % of an alkynol, wherein the mol % is based on the moles of isocyanate in the polyisocyanate, wherein the first portion of isocyanate groups reacts with the C10-C50 glycol ether, wherein the second portion of isocyanate groups reacts with the alkynol, and wherein reaction occurs optionally in the presence of a catalyst. The reaction of long chain glycol ethers with the polyisocyanate at a level of from 0.1 mol % to 6 mol % imparts water dispersibility to the prepolymer, and when the prepolymer is dispersed in water, the performance of waterborne alternative polyurethane compositions made therefrom, such as coatings, adhesives, sealants, films, elastomers, castings, foams, and composites, are not compromised. The invention allows for the use of water as a carrier, thus eliminating the need for organic solvents.