Waterborne aqueous-alcohol soluble protein compositions, methods of making the compositions, and applications thereof are disclosed. The dispersion compositions include protein, water, acid, and optionally an ester of a carboxylic acid. The methods of making the compositions including combining the protein, water, acid and optionally ester to form a dispersion without the benefit of alcohol. Applications include industrial and food applications, such as binders and coatings, for example paint binders or coatings for paper products and pharmaceuticals.