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EIC Pathfinder

EIC Pathfinder Challenge: Biotechnology for Healthy Ageing

Supports translating decades of ageing biology into biotech or pharma proofs-of-concept that prevent, delay or revert age-related disease.

OpenEuropean Innovation CouncilEUEU associated countries

The share of EU citizens aged 85+ will more than double by 2050, but healthy life expectancy currently stands at only 70.5 years. Decades of basic research have identified hallmarks and cellular mechanisms of ageing, but translating these insights into clinical interventions has had low success rates due to difficulties translating from model systems, identifying when to intervene, rigorous valida…

Translate decades of basic ageing research into tangible biopharmaceutical solutions for healthy ageing. Proposals must develop a proof of concept in ONE of three areas: (1) preventative or therapeutic biotechnology-based/pharmaceutical intervention targeting a fundamental cellular process of ageing; (2) biomarker-based tool for responsible deployment of ageing interventions; or (3) New Approach Methodology (NAM) that captures the systemic nature of ageing. Excluded: precision nutrition, novel ageing clocks per se, wellness applications, biomarker discovery.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.28 Oct 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.20 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€32M

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Last verified: 22 Jul 2026Source: eic.ec.europa.eu