The Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) is a corporate body set up on the 1st of September 2019 through the proclamation of the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council Act 2019. The Council acts as the apex body which advises the Government on matters concerning applied research, innovation and research and development issues. The new Act empowers the Council in the promotion of high-quality research and in fostering innovation. The objectives of the MRIC, as enunciated in the new Act, are as follows: a. promote and coordinate applied research, innovation and research and development according to the needs of the country and to improve the quality of life; b. foster a research, innovation and entrepreneurship culture; c. encourage the development and application of advanced and innovative technology to meet the needs of industries; d. enhance private sector participation in research and development and innovation; and e. promote commercial utilisation of the results of research and development and innovation, in the national interest.