# ZonMw ValNAM 2026

**Funder:** ZonMw
**Budget:** €200,000-€500,000
**Deadline:** 15 June 2026 (Validation of new alternative methods to animal testing.)
**Duration:** 2-4 years
**Consortium:** No
**Application:** Single stage
**TRL:** 3-5
**Frequency:** Annual
**Next round:** 2027-06
**Official call:** https://www.zonmw.nl/en/subsidy/valnam
**Last updated:** 4 Jul 2026

> **Recently updated:** catalog cleanup 2026-07-04: past deadline

## Summary

ZonMw ValNAM 2026 funds the validation and translation of new alternative methods to replace animal testing, with budgets of €200,000-€500,000 for projects lasting 2-4 years. The call is open to researchers in the Netherlands working to develop, refine, or implement non-animal testing approaches at TRL 3-5 (laboratory proof-of-concept through early implementation). Applicants should demonstrate a clear pathway toward regulatory or industrial adoption of their validated method.

## Who should apply

- Researchers or research teams in the Netherlands developing non-animal testing methodologies
- Projects at TRL 3-5 (proof-of-concept to early implementation phase)
- Applicants with a defined validation or regulatory adoption pathway
- Interdisciplinary teams combining method development with toxicology, pharmacology, or regulatory science expertise

## Key dates

- Deadline: 15 June 2026
- Single-stage application
- Project duration: 2-4 years

## Tips for applicants

- Frame the method's regulatory or industry relevance upfront, ZonMw prioritises alignment with the EU 3Rs agenda (Replace, Reduce, Refine) and real-world adoption pathways.
- Include a validation plan with defined success criteria and end-users (regulatory bodies, contract research organisations, or industry partners) who will adopt or test the method.
- Specify the animal test(s) your method replaces or complements; clarity on the translational gap strengthens the application.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does ZonMw ValNAM 2026 fund?

Between €200,000 and €500,000 per project over 2-4 years.

### What does ValNAM mean?

ValNAM stands for Validation of New Alternative Methods to replace animal testing.

### Who is eligible for ZonMw ValNAM 2026?

Researchers based at institutions in the Netherlands working on alternative methods at TRL 3-5.

### Is ZonMw ValNAM 2026 recurring?

Yes, ZonMw runs ValNAM annually; the next round is expected in June 2027.

### Do I need a consortium to apply?

No, consortia are not required, though multidisciplinary partnerships strengthen validation and adoption prospects.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/zonmw-valnam-2026) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

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