The BMBF accordingly intends to promote research and development projects with the goal of replacing animal tests with alternative methods, reducing them, or refining them in order to minimise the effect on the  animals as far as possible (3R principle of Russel & Burch: Replacement, Reduction, Refinement). The practical implementation of the results of scientific research is to be of paramount importance, so that any 3R potential can be exploited as quickly and comprehensively  as possible. Universities, private research institutions and commercial enterprises with their headquarters in Germany are entitled to apply for funding. The funding process consists of two phases.

Further information: http://www.bmbf.de/