The STEP4NAMs project is launching a comprehensive training and support programme designed to support the uptake of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) as alternatives to animal testing in the BioPharma and MedTech sectors.

As regulatory frameworks evolve and innovative technologies mature, the adoption of NAMs increasingly requires not only technical solutions, but also skills development, regulatory awareness and practical readiness among stakeholders. The STEP4NAMs programme addresses these needs through a structured, modular and accessible approach.

A structured programme built around EDUCATE

At the core of the STEP4NAMs training and support programme lies EDUCATE, an interactive online training platform delivered via Moodle. EDUCATE provides a solid foundation for stakeholders wishing to better understand, develop or apply New Approach Methodologies in their professional activities.

The EDUCATE programme combines:

• a mandatory core module covering cross-cutting topics such as regulatory landscapes, ethical considerations, application potential and limitations of NAMs;
• four specialised sub-modules focusing on key NAM approaches:
• Organ-on-Chip
• Organoids
• Digital Twins
• Benchtop Simulations for MedTech

Courses are delivered through expert-led online lectures, case studies and practical examples. Participants can follow the training at their own pace and receive certificates upon successful completion of each module.

From training to readiness

EDUCATE is designed to support a wide range of stakeholders, including SMEs, researchers, industry professionals, regulators and public authorities. By strengthening knowledge and understanding of NAMs, the programme contributes to increasing acceptance and confidence in these approaches across sectors.

Completion of the EDUCATE programme also serves as a prerequisite for accessing further support opportunities within STEP4NAMs, ensuring that participants share a common knowledge base before moving towards more targeted activities.

Complementary support opportunities for SMEs

In addition to the EDUCATE training platform, STEP4NAMs offers optional support for selected SMEs aiming to further develop or implement NAM-based solutions.

The ENABLE programme provides tailored SME support through hands-on support directly on the university sites, covering organ-on-chip microfabrication, microfluidics, biomaterials, regulatory aspects, and medical device testing. SMEs with specific needs can also receive individualized assistance on NAM implementation; from model selection to planning and review, , ensuring practical application of the knowledge to their projects. Participation is subject to a selection process and designed to address the specific challenges SMEs face in adopting NAMs.

Industry-led implementation through APPLY

For SMEs seeking to engage in real-world implementation, STEP4NAMs also offers the APPLY programme, a challenge-based competition connecting SMEs with industrial partners in the BioPharma and MedTech sectors.

Through APPLY, SMEs collaborate with challenge providers to co-develop NAM solutions addressing concrete industrial needs. The programme fosters collaboration, skills development and implementation readiness while supporting innovation and market-oriented thinking.

Participation in APPLY is optional and subject to eligibility criteria, including prior completion of the EDUCATE training.

A modular and flexible pathway

Rather than a linear or mandatory progression, the STEP4NAMs programme offers a modular pathway:

• EDUCATE as the central entry point,
• complemented by optional SME support (ENABLE),
• and implementation opportunities through industry-led challenges (APPLY).

This structure allows stakeholders to engage with the programme according to their needs, maturity level and objectives.

Next steps

The STEP4NAMs training and support programme will be introduced during an online webinar in early March, followed by the launch of the EDUCATE training platform in mid-March.
Stakeholders interested in New Approach Methodologies are invited to discover the programme and explore how it can support their activities and projects.

 

Register now