The European network TEF-Health supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in bringing their AI or robotics solutions in the healthcare sector to market faster, more securely, and in compliance with regulations. The focus is on the validation, testing, and certification of innovative health tech products—from the laboratory phase to clinical application. The second open call is now open: SMEs from the EU or the European Economic Area can apply to participate immediately.
TEF-Health brings together 52 partners from nine countries, including leading universities, hospitals, technology centers, and certification bodies. The project is co-funded by the European Commission and national governments as part of the Digital Europe Program. The aim is to support innovators in the healthcare sector on their path to market approval – particularly with regard to compliance with the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and the upcoming AI Act.
Participating companies receive subsidized access to high-quality data, clinical environments, and testing infrastructures. In addition, experts are available for regulatory advice, technical validation, and market readiness analyses. The services offered range from physical and virtual testing environments to readiness checks and support from clinics and certification bodies.
SMEs based in the EU or EEA that are developing AI or robotics solutions at a technology readiness level (TRL) of at least 6 are eligible to apply. The application deadline is December 31, 2027, or until the available service capacities are exhausted. All information on the application process and the service catalog are available online at tef.charite.de and tef-health.kg.ebrains.eu. If you have any questions, please contact Jasmin Podufall (Berlin Partner) at jasmin.podufall@berlin-partner.de.
On October 15, 2025, TEF-Health is also hosting a webinar entitled “Physical Testing and Validation Services for SMEs” from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. (CEST). In this online session, participants will learn how physical testing and validation services – including clinical testing facilities – can contribute to product development and certification. In addition to an overview of the available services and a practical tutorial on navigating the service catalog, successful SMEs will share their practical experiences. A live Q&A session with TEF Health experts will round off the program. Registration is available here.
The TEF Health webinar series is specifically aimed at SMEs that want to use access to European testing and certification services to meet regulatory requirements and bring their solutions to market. Further dates and information can be found at tefhealth.eu.