The BRAINFRAME proposal aims to modernise and strengthen the research and innovation (R&I) dimension of higher education institutions, particularly in Widening countries, by establishing a sustainable, interconnected framework for excellence in translational neuroscience. Fully aligned with the priorities of HORIZON-WIDERA-2025-01-ACCESS-01 and the ERA Policy Agenda, the project will accelerate institutional reforms, enhance knowledge valorisation practices, and build critical mass through integrated collaboration across European universities and research ecosystems.