These synergies do not come by chance. As a research-driven company, the worldwide R&D network of Boehringer Ingelheim is the powerhouse for innovation. “In the future, we want to discover, develop, and deliver breakthrough therapies in those areas with unmet needs,” as Prof. Dr. Eric Haaksma, Head of the company's Animal Health Global Innovation Division, outlines. Accordingly, in 2020, Boehringer Ingelheim began the implementation of a transformational innovation strategy. This process is guided by a Disease Map, a tool that gives a comprehensive overview of diseases for the main species and regions. In terms of R&D, the Disease Map sets the stage for the development of innovative solutions, identifying key focus areas in vaccines, parasiticides, and therapeutics. Like a compass, it navigates scientists in new directions – towards promising new synergies, unmet needs, research potential, and future markets. As of the end of 2020, the initial version of the map includes already nearly 2,500 established diseases.