The European Clinical Research Infrastructure Network (ECRIN) is a sustainable, non-profit, distributed infrastructure with the legal status of a European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC). ECRIN supports multinational clinical trials in Europe, which provide increased access to patients, resources and expertise. Multinational trials generate potentially more robust trial results and greater public health impact.In particular, ECRIN supports investigators and sponsors in the preparation of trial protocols and funding applications, and can subsequently provide services for the management of multinational trials. ECRIN is also involved in activities to enhance the ability of European institutions to successfully conduct multi-country clinical research (e.g. tools/database development, data centre certification). ECRIN began in 2004 as a consortium and matured through European Union Framework Program 6 and 7 funding. In 2006, it was listed on the European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI) roadmap, and was designated an “ESFRI Landmark” in 2016. In December 2013, ECRIN was awarded ERIC status.