The Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI) was founded to provide the technological development infrastructure needed to support the socio-economic growth of Trinidad and Tobago following its independence. Founded with the assistance of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), CARIRI officially came into existence on August 5, 1970. Originally located in a small facility at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine Campus, CARIRI was incorporated under Act No. 19 of 1971 and later amended in 1981 to broaden its mandate. This mandate focused on providing technical and industrial services, business development support, and industrial research for Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean region.
CARIRI was envisioned at the time as a bridge between academia and industry, facilitating the commercialization of research emanating from the UWI. However, early challenges arose due to the limited availability of applied research and the slow uptake of technology by the private sector. Despite these initial setbacks, CARIRI quickly established itself as a leader in analytical and engineering testing services, expanding its operations to include chemical and microbiological analyses, materials testing, process development and quality assurance. Over time, its service offerings grew to include entrepreneurship services, market research and innovation facilitation (services), proving its value to both government and industry.
A key factor in CARIRI’s evolution has been its ability to adapt to changing economic conditions while maintaining its relevance. Strategic investments in human resources, quality management systems, and state-of-the-art equipment and laboratory facilities have enabled the Institute to maintain high service standards. In 1997, CARIRI achieved accreditation for its testing laboratories under the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS). The Institute is today ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025 accredited (International Accreditation Service), as well as STOW-certified. These developments strengthened its reputation as a premier provider of technological services to enterprises of all sizes, from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to multinational corporations.
In 2014, CARIRI took a significant step forward with the establishment of its Centre for Enterprise Development (CED). Recognizing the importance of contributing more substantively to economic diversification, the CED was designed to support Innovation, Entrepreneurship Development and New Business Creation, as well as Business Expansion. Within this framework, innovative Programmes were instituted, such as the Innovation Gap Analysis Programme (IGAP), the Idea Advisory Service (IAS) and the Business Hatchery Programme (BHP); enabling the Institute to position itself as a catalyst for economic transformation locally and in the region, where we also offer services such as data analytics, web and app development, as well as ICT training programmes.
CARIRI’s impact extends beyond the Caribbean, as evidenced by the Institute being a founding member of the World Association of Industrial and Technological Research Organizations (WAITRO); which is a global network that is designed to facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity building through partnerships with research institutions in Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa. Through collaboration with key WAITRO members, CARIRI has been able to build capacity and capability in major service areas, allowing it to contribute to international projects and leverage funding from organizations such as the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).
Over the years, CARIRI has been led by several distinguished executives who have played pivotal roles in shaping its growth and development. These comprise Dr. Hollis Charles, who was at the helm when the Institute commenced operations, Dr. Desmond Ali, Michael Harris and Liaquat Ali Shah. Each has contributed to building the Institute’s capacity and capability, solidifying its role as the region’s leading provider of technological solutions.
CARIRI’s commitment to technological excellence and industry support has been unwavering over the past five decades. Its contribution to industrial development, innovation facilitation and new business creation and expansion has left, and continues to leave, a lasting impact locally and regionally. The dedication of its staff, management and successive Boards of Management has been instrumental in achieving its mission. Notable figures such as Eugenio Moore, Frank Barsotti, Professor John Spence and others have provided invaluable strategic direction and guidance to ensure CARIRI remains a key player in the developmental landscape.
As CARIRI looks ahead, it remains committed to addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving industrial and economic environment. By continuing to foster innovation, enhance service quality and strengthen partnerships, the Institute stands ready to play an even greater role in shaping the future of economic development in Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean region.
