Development of novel small molecule antiviral therapeutics for pathogens with epidemic potential

The EU supports cross-border cutting-edge research with the call "Development of novel small molecule antiviral therapeutics for pathogens with epidemic potential" for the discovery, optimization, preclinical testing, and initial clinical trials of novel small molecule antiviral agents against key epidemic pathogens such as Junin and Lassa mammarenaviruses, TBE, Japanese encephalitis, Hendra, Andes, Hantaan or Sin Nombre viruses, Enterovirus D68, and Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Virus. Funding is provided to consortia consisting of at least three independent institutions from at least three EU Member States or associated countries. Eligible applicants include companies (especially SMEs), universities, research institutions, non-profit and public organizations, as well as founders. The funding rate is 100%, up to 70% for innovation actions, with a maximum funding amount per project ranging between EUR 9 and 11 million. Applications can be submitted until 13 April 2027.

The objective is to sustainably strengthen the innovation and resilience capacity of European health systems by developing new, variant-transcending antiviral approaches from target identification to clinical phase I. Eligible costs include personnel, material and travel expenses, GMP production, in vitro/in vivo testing, and clinical phase I studies. Projects are evaluated based on the criteria of excellence, impact, and quality and efficiency of implementation. Particular importance is given to gender-responsive research and inclusive strategies; a Gender Equality Plan is required. By promoting cross-border collaboration, the EU-wide leading role in antiviral drug development is reinforced, and pandemic preparedness is sustainably improved.