Recognized as a centre of Excellence for the East Africa Community, the Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI) is skewed towards proven capacity in research and development, translating research into practical applications. UIRI undertakes research and development (R&D) in partnership with clients in both the private sector (Small and Medium Enterprises, Community groups as well as private academic institutions) as well as in the public sector (local governments and Universities).

Such initiatives have yielded to problem responsive innovations such as the menstrual pad sterilizer, aflatoxin and moisture detecting technologies. As well as awards including the innovation award for the Electrically Controlled Gravity Infusion given at the Patient Safety, Science and Technology Summit in California U.S.A and the United Nations award for the portable Electrochemical Aflatoxin B1 kit.