The Networking Support Scheme (NSS) is a funding initiative under the European Rare Diseases Research Alliance (ERDERA). Its main goals are to:

1. Foster the exchange of scientific knowledge on rare diseases or rare cancers among researchers, clinicians, research managers, and patient advocacy organizations (PAOs).

2. Promote the inclusion of underrepresented European countries in new or growing rare disease research networks.

The funding supports the organization of transnational European/international networking events, either in face-to-face or hybrid format, with a strong emphasis on interactive collaboration and dissemination of research. Events should focus on research findings and their implications, and may serve as a platform for future collaborative efforts.

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis from May 2025 to April 2029, with evaluations every 6 months, starting October 7, 2025.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible Applicants

Applicants must be from ERDERA-eligible countries (see Annex 1) and can include:

• Researchers or clinicians in rare diseases or rare cancers

• Research managers from universities, public research institutes, hospitals, or public health organizations

• Legally recognized Patient Advocacy Organizations (PAOs) focused on rare diseases or rare cancers

Only transnational consortia are eligible. Consortia must:

• Include 3-10 eligible co-applicants from at least 3 different countries, one of which must be an underrepresented country from Annex 1

• Have a legally established principal applicant organization in an eligible country

• May include co-applicants from Australia, Canada, the UK, and Switzerland

Non-research-focused events (e.g., family gatherings) are not eligible.

Eligible Diseases

• Rare diseases: Affecting ≤ 5 in 10,000 people in Europe or Canada

• Rare cancers: Incidence < 6 per 100,000/year (List of rare cancers)

• Undiagnosed cohorts suspected of rare diseases

• NOT eligible: Rare infectious diseases

Eligible Countries (for hosting events)

• Events must be held in a country listed in Annex 1

• Hosting in an underrepresented country is encouraged if it adds value

• The local organizer must be part of the applying consortium

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