The Council plays a vital role in developing and implementing the country’s national research strategy. It acts as:
- a government adviser, identifying present and future needs for knowledge and research
- a funding agency for independent research programmes and projects, strategic programmes at research institutes, and Norwegian participation in international research programmes
- a co-ordinator, initiating networks and promoting co-operation between R&D institutions, ministries, business and industry, public agencies and enterprises, other sources of funding, and users of research.