Fifth IMI call launched

The JTI Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 has launched its 5th call for proposals under the IMI 2 programme. Deadline for submitting short proposals is October 13, 2015. The call with identifier H2020-JTI-IMI2-2015-05-two-stage has a budget of € 95 million and features six topics, of which four focus on different aspects of Alzheimer’s disease, one on diabetic kidney disease, and one on patient input on assessments of the benefits and risks of medicines.

Researchers from diverse sectors can participate in ambitious public-private partnerships that will pave the way for the development of the medicines of the future. IMI encourages small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), mid-sized companies, patients' organisations, regulatory authorities, academic teams, industry, hospitals and other organisations to form consortia and apply to participate in the new IMI projects.

Half of the call's budget (€ 47.5 million) comes from the European Commission through the Horizon 2020 programme for research and innovation. The other half will be contributed by EFPIA companies involved in the projects as well as other Associated Partners. These groups do not receive any funding from IMI, but contribute 'in kind' with their researchers' time, access to resources and equipment, etc.

The goal of the IMI 2 programme is to develop next generation vaccines, medicines and treatments, such as new antibiotics. It will build on the successes and lessons learnt under IMI's first phase. As before, it will bring together companies, universities, public laboratories, innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), patient groups and regulators in collaborative projects that will pave the way for breakthrough vaccines, medicines and treatments to tackle Europe’s growing health challenges, and secure the future international competitiveness of Europe’s pharmaceutical industry.