The Donald J. Savoie Institute aims first and foremost to promote the regional development of l'Acadie, New Brunswick and Atlantic Canada through its work on major public policy issues at the regional, national, and even international level by conducting research, non-partisan and rigourous analysis, and fostering informed public debate.

The Institute is an autonomous entity; however, it has a special relationship with the Université de Moncton. Its presence on the Moncton campus fosters research with faculty members and contributes to training young researchers. Members of the research team of the Institute regularly teach courses at the Université de Moncton, which enriches the courses curriculum.

The Institute also maintains relationships with multiple partners from various institutions in Atlantic Canada and nationwide.