Pilot actions for follow-on funding: Leveraging EU-funded collaborative research in regenerative medicine

The EU funding initiative “Pilot actions for follow-on funding: Leveraging EU-funded collaborative research in regenerative medicine” targets small and medium-sized enterprises, research institutions, non-profit and public organizations from EU Member States as well as associated countries. A prerequisite is the successful participation in a multi-beneficiary Horizon 2020 or Horizon Europe project in the field of regenerative medicine no more than three years before the deadline (16.04.2026). The measure supports the gradual advancement of health innovations from TRL 5 up to clinical validation or large-scale manufacturing. The focus is on prototype development, demonstration, and validation of pioneering biotech solutions. The consortium must submit the reference to the preceding EU project, an explicit market needs analysis, and a detailed budget plan.

Over a period of up to 36 months, eligible expenses in research & development, prototyping, and clinical validation are covered at 70–100% of a total of €6–8 million. In addition to excellence and impact, the evaluation places great emphasis on the quality and efficiency of implementation. Included are cooperation, prototyping, and demonstration of transformative therapies for tissue regeneration. Retroactive costs and real estate acquisitions are excluded. With the aim of strengthening the competitiveness of European health research, the measure promotes synergies between completed EU projects. Expert evaluation, transparent accounting according to EU guidelines, as well as reporting on milestones and final results ensure success. Interested parties should carefully prepare the application and submit the EU application form, evidence of market analysis, and documentation of market consultation no later than 16.04.2026.