KIC - Early detection of (emerging) outbreaks of infectious diseases
The KIC call "Early detection of (emerging) outbreaks of infectious diseases" explores how AI-driven early detection can contribute to early recognition of infection hotspots in the Netherlands to prevent disruptive epidemics. This call contributes to the central mission of the Knowledge and Innovation Agenda (KIA) Health and Care.
Background
Infectious diseases are an increasing threat due to globalisation, antimicrobial resistance, growing population densities and changes in climate and usage of land. Therefore, it is important to stay vigilant around new potential outbreaks, so that we can take early (preventative) measures. Identifying diseases in an early stage is crucial, but it is not yet clear which data effectively contribute to recognizing pattern changes in society as as result of an outbreak. AI-driven early detection offers opportunities.
Purpose of the call and societal impact
The purpose of the call "KIC - Early detection of (emerging) outbreaks of infectious diseases" is the (further) development of AI-driven early warning systems. The focus is on the use and combination of already available, non-biomedical data sources for the early detection of infectious disease outbreaks. Combining these data sources with existing biomedical surveillance, such as data from the veterinary domain, general practitioners or screening, is an important innovation. This will enable the early detection of infection hotspots in the Netherlands and prevent disruptive epidemics. Applicants are encouraged to develop a plan for data infrastructure, revenue models and a response plan and/or integrate these into existing plans.
Transdisciplinary consortia can apply for financing. It is preferred if researchers in the arts, humanities and social sciences are all represented. Involved parties contribute with relevant expertise from fields like medical, environmental, technological, legal, ethical, behavioural and social sciences.
More information
| Online information meeting. Register here | March 10 2026, 9.30 – 11.00 h |
| Collaborative workshops Register here before march 12 | March 19 2026, 12.00 – 17.00 h April 16 2026, 12.00 – 17.00 h |
| Closing date full application | October 6 2026, 14.00 h |
| Total available budget | 7 million euros |
| Budget per application | A minimum of 2 million euros and a maximum of 3,5 million euros |
| Maximum duration of the project | 6 years |
| Percentage cofinancing | NWO will finance up to 90% of the total project scope; the remainder of the project budget will be contributed through mandatory co-funding |
Read more on the NWO website about the call Early detection of (emerging) outbreaks of infectious diseases.
ZonMw's role within KIC
ZonMw is one of the domains of the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO). This means that ZonMw and NWO work together closely. ZonMw coordinates from her knowledge and expertise on different calls withtin the NWO-KIC innovation Convenant.
NWO-KIC: innovation programmes in the knowledge and innovation covenant
NWO develops innovation programmes that focus on societal challenges in the Netherlands. These programmes aim to have an impact on the economy, people and society. The focus is on cooperation between knowledge institutions, private parties and the government. The results thus contribute to the realisation of economic opportunities. It is therefore essential that companies invest in every research project.