By virtue of their independence, they can be shielded from occasional political interference in operational decisions and may be better able to maintain the long-term outlook. Independent agencies can also help overcome problems arising from ministerial compartmentalisation and seek synergies across issues that span portfolio boundaries. It is the most visible outcome of Croatia’s first comprehensive research and innovation policy programme, the National Scientific and Research Programme 1996-98 and it was the first operationally independent agency to be entrusted with the implementation of research and innovation policy. At its inception its mission and approach to the support of industry were influenced by collaboration w'ith the Business Innovation Centre Friuli-Venezia Giulia in Italy.