The Research Council is Norway's official body for the development and implementation of national research strategy. The Council is responsible for enhancing Norway's knowledge base and for promoting basic and applied research and innovation in order to help meet research needs within society. The Research Council also works actively to encourage international research cooperation.

The Research Council serves as an advisory body on research policy issues, identifies research needs and recommends national priorities. Through the establishment and implementation of targeted funding schemes the Research Council facilitates the translation of national research policy objectives into action. The Research Council serves as a meeting place for researchers, funders and users of research findings, as well as for the different sectors and subject fields that are affiliated with the world of research.