The Research Unit was established in 1996 (see Government Gazette 200/A'/27.08.1996) as a Research Unit of Local and Regional Planning. The Research Unit of Evaluation of Development Policies and Programs received its current name in the year 2001 (see Government Gazette 506/B'/30.04.2001).

Strengthening and supporting the educational process and research activity of the Department of Spatial Planning, Urban Planning and Regional Development

the evaluation of development programs at local, regional, national and international level and the analysis of the economic potential and constraints (SWOT) of a region

the preparation of development studies and programs, the preparation of financial reports, the provision of specialized advice and the support of local, national or European authorities on issues related to the design of development policies

the assessment of the viability of public and private investments and the preparation of Business Plans;

the economic analysis of the European area at national and regional level and the monitoring and evaluation of the impact of economic integration and the structural and sectoral policies of the European Union.