A group of European biotech companies with novel approaches to tackle antimicrobial resistance formed the BEAM (Biotechs from Europe innovating in Antimicrobial Resistance) Alliance earlier this year. The 39 small to medium-sized enterprises involved in developing antibiotic drugs or infectious disease diagnostics in one way or another, from ten countries across the continent, joined forces with a common interest in using innovation to prevent resistance from arising in both old and newer antimicrobial products. The BEAM Alliance and its mission to improve investment and commercial viability for new products that combat antimicrobial resistance tracks closely with several other prominent groups drawing attention to this global public health issue. For instance, in June, the heads of state who were gathered at the G7 countries meeting in Germany said in the Leaders' Declaration that they fully support the World Health Organization's Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance. They further said that they will foster prudent use of antibiotics and help to stimulate basic research, research on epidemiology, infection prevention and control, and the development of new antibiotics, alternative therapies, vaccines and rapid point-of-care diagnostics.