Through this letter LERU voices its opinion regarding the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI). LERU is in favour of the spirit and scientific merit of the IMI and agrees with the principles expressed in the Joint Statement on IMI issued by the European Universities Association (EUA), EARTO et al., but wants to add some further remarks. LERU addresses issues that prevent IMI from growing, e.g. the unequal partnerships, and offers recommendations.