Translating Disruptive New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) into Practice

The EU funding call “Translating Disruptive New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) into Practice” targets start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as research institutions within the EU that have already demonstrated novel, animal-free approaches (NAMs) up to TRL 4. The objective is to accelerate the development, validation, and standardization of innovative New Approach Methodologies for biomedical applications and medical devices up to a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6. With funding of up to €300,000 per project, disruptive concepts are supported that drive regulatory innovation and enable faster and safer market introduction of health solutions. Applications must be submitted by 26 February 2026, 17:00 (Brussels time); the funding duration consists of a single-stage application with a 100% grant rate.

The competition proceeds in two phases: In Stage 1, feasibility studies, benchmarking, and initial performance evaluations are conducted. This includes mapping regulatory and industrial requirements, small experiments or in silico models, as well as ethical and data governance assessments. For Stage 2, successful participants must develop a prototype and test it in relevant application contexts, including comparison with animal models, workshops with stakeholders, and preparation of regulatory data packages. Letters of Intent from industry end-users or regulatory authorities, as well as access to appropriate infrastructure, are required. Projects are evaluated based on the criteria of Excellence, Impact, and Implementation and should make a sustainable contribution to reducing animal testing in biomedical research.