To assess the demands of developing countries for various research and capacity building services in the field of genetic resources (i.e., a Demand Analysis, DA).

To identify critical gaps between information and resources that are currently available and the demands for research and capacity building services.

To act as a 'knowledge broker' linking demands with existing information resources (i.e. the Policy Information Brokerage Service, PIBS).

To support action research in different countries and sub-regions where needs cannot be met through the use of existing materials.

To initiate and support capacity strengthening activities involving national policy makers and other stakeholders.

To strengthen and facilitate activities of regional networks active in the field.

To create an independent and neutral institution with an international governance structure that will be able to coordinate and encourage the realization of these objectives.