The MET Technology Gateway is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Northern and Western Regional Programme 2021-27

Project

STEP4NAMs

STEP4NAMs logo

Promotion of the Use of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) to Replace Animal Testing

  • Focus on the (Bio)Pharma and MedTech sectors
  • Strengthening research and innovation capacities through the implementation and validation of modern technologies
  • Development of a joint strategy and sector-specific action plans to facilitate the adoption of NAMs in the participating regions
  • Reducing the lack of knowledge, insufficient acceptance, and fragmented infrastructure regarding the application of NAMs

Objective

  • Promoting innovation and resilience in the field of NAMs in NWE
  • Utilizing transnational cooperation to improve the implementation of NAMs
  • Bringing together stakeholders across the entire NAM value chain from different countries
  • Increasing acceptance and use of NAMs through validation and demonstration in four pilot studies (Organ-on-Chip, Organoids, Digital Twin, Bioprinting/Bench-Top Simulations)
  • Developing a validation manual as a guideline for NAM users and developers
  • Training and supporting 186 participants (SMEs, research organizations, regulatory authorities) through a tailored training program to disseminate knowledge and promote NAMs

Project Duration, Funding, and Role of BioRegio STERN

The project has a duration of 48 months (four years) and a total budget of €6,332,365.47. Of this, €3,799,419.27 (60%) is financed through an EU grant from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). A total of €827,645.00 is allocated to the BioRegion STERN, with €496,587.00 (60%) coming from ERDF funds, while the remaining €331,058.00 (40%) is covered by own contributions.

BioRegio STERN assumes the role of Lead Partner in this project and is primarily responsible for management, coordination, and implementation.