Before
Submission
What is IHI and how does it work
The Innovative Health Initiative (IHI) is a public-private partnership between the European Union and five European health industry associations, including COCIR. It aims to accelerate health research and innovation by funding collaborative research projects that address unmet health needs.
- IHI brings together public and private partners to develop solutions in digital health, personalized medicine, advanced diagnostics, and sustainability.
- Funding is provided through a co-financing model combining EU contributions and private sector investments.
Who can participate in IHI calls
IHI is open to a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- Private partners: Companies that are members of one of the founding industry associations (e.g., COCIR, EFPIA, EuropaBio, MedTech Europe, Vaccines Europe).
- Public stakeholders: Academia, research institutes, public and private healthcare providers, regulators, patient organizations, and SMEs.
- Strategic contributors: Additional partners who can join projects to provide in-kind contributions or financial support.
How are topics for IHI calls selected
Topics are selected based on the IHI Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA), which outlines the priority areas for health research and innovation. Topics are developed by:
- IHI founding industry associations (including COCIR) in collaboration with the IHI Office.
- Stakeholder consultations to ensure that topics address unmet health needs and are aligned with European Commission.
During
Submission
How do I prepare and submit a proposal
To prepare and submit a proposal, you need to:
- Identify the relevant call topic – Review the IHI Work Programmes and call documents.
- Build a consortium – Form a team of public and private partners that meet the requirements of the call.
- Prepare your proposal – Using the templates and guidelines provided by IHI.
- Submit your proposal – Through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.
How can I find partners for my consortium
Potential partners can be identified through:
- Networking on the IHI brokerage platform.
- Participating in IHI-organized brokerage events.
- Collaborating with COCIR members and strategic industry partners.
After
Submission
What happens after my proposal is evaluated
Once proposals are evaluated, selected consortia must:
- Prepare grant agreements – Outlining funding, deliverables, and reporting requirements.
- Develop consortium agreements – Detailing partner roles and responsibilities.
- Complete financial and ethics assessments – Ensuring compliance with EU regulations.
What are the reporting requirements for IHI projects
IHI projects require:
- Continuous and periodic reporting – Covering technical progress and financial contributions.
- Final reporting and audits – Including financial certification to ensure compliance with IHI’s co-funding model.
What are the communication guidelines for IHI projects
Effective communication enhances visibility and raises awareness of IHI projects.
- Public-facing communication can only begin after signing the grant agreement.
- Acknowledgment of IHI support is mandatory in all communication materials.
