Training & Support Programme

Building Competence and Capacity for the Implementation of  New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) 


​The STEP4NAMs Training & Support Programme is a comprehensive capacity-building initiative designed to accelerate the adoption in the BioPharma and MedTech sectors.

The programme equips stakeholders across the value chain with the scientific knowledge, technical skills and strategic guidance necessary to implement NAMs effectively and sustainably. The programme is structured into three complementary pillars:

  • EDUCATE – Interactive Online Training 
  • ENABLE – Tailor-Made SME Support
  • APPLY –Challenge-based NAM implementation

Together, these pillars provide a pathway from foundational knowledge to practical implementation and industrial collaboration.


Learn more about the programme at our Information webinar    

Upcoming webinar: 
STEP4NAMs Webinar for ENABLE & APPLY of training programme on New Approach Methodologies. 
27. May 2026 | 1:00 -1:45 PM (CET) |Format: Online | Open to all and free
More about new webinar


For those who could not join the first webinar about the training & support programme, the recording is available here: 
Webinar recording 

EDUCATE – Interactive Online Training


The EDUCATE programme forms the theoretical backbone. 
Trough our Moodle platform, it offers flexible, expert-led training for everybody.

Go to Moodle plattform


Structure of the EDUCATE Programme

1. Core Introductory Module
The Core-Module is fully available:
 Read more
This module covers cross-cutting fundamentals, including:

  • What are NAMs?
  • Regulatory landscape and acceptance
  • Ethics and innovation in NAMs
  • Cross-sectoral applications
  • Benefits, limitations and implementation potential

2. Specialised Sub-Modules
All Sub-Modules are available: 
 Read more
Participants select one or more of the following in-depth modules (15–20 hours each):

Organ-on-Chip (OoC)

Learn more: 


Organoids

Learn more: 


Digital Twins

Learn more: 



Bench-Top Simultion Systems

Learn more: 


Certification

Participants who pass the final assessment (≥80%) receive a certificate for each completed module.
Certification is a prerequisite for participation in the ENABLE and APPLY programmes.

ENABLE – Tailor-Made SME Support

The ENABLE programme translates knowledge into practice. It provides selected SMEs with structured, high-value support to accelerate their NAM implementation strategy.

Who can apply?

SMEs meeting EU criteria 
Selection is based on:

  • Innovation potential and relevance to NAMs
  • Market readiness (TRL level and feasibility)
  • Expected impact on growth and competitiveness
  • Capacity and motivation to implement outcomes
  • Contribution to European NAM ecosystems


The three ENABLE support formats

ENABLE consists of three separate support formats, each with its own application process, allowing SMEs to apply according to their specific needs and interests. It provides structured, practical support to help SMEs overcome scientific, technical and regulatory barriers in NAM adoption.

1. On-site Training at Atlantic Technological University (Ireland)
Hands-on training focused on medical imaging, device prototyping and applied NAM use in MedTech, delivered in a real clinical and technical environment.


2. On-site Training at 3R Center Tübingen (Germany)
Specialised on-site training on advanced NAM technologies with a strong focus on introducing organ-on-chip technology, microfluidics, and biomaterials.


3. SME Consulting & One-to-One Support
Individual consulting support tailored to company-specific challenges in NAM implementation.

APPLY – Challenge-based NAM implementation

The APPLY programme is a challenge-based competition designed to foster SME–industry collaboration and accelerate real-world NAM implementation.

Who can apply?

  • Completion of an EDUCATE module
  • Minimum TRL 4
  • Dedicated team capacity (0.5–2 FTE)
  • Strong innovation and execution capability

Concept

Large and mid-sized BioPharma and MedTech companies act as Challenge Providers. The challenges are published through open calls, allowing SMEs to apply to the challenge(s) that match their expertise and technology focus. Selected SMEs co-develop solutions together with the Challenge Provider, addressing concrete industrial needs and advancing NAM implementation towards market readiness.

What selected SMEs receive

  • Four months of structured mentoring
  • A dedicated training package (valued at €3,000 per SME)
  • On-site collaboration with the Challenge Provider (travel voucher included)
  • Opportunities to connect with investors and manufacturers
  • Visibility at final dissemination events and European innovation platforms

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