The primary scope of the SIBC is to establish a joint microbial strain data base by exchanging selected information on individual strain collections between SIBC members, creating a shared Consortium strain data base, to which each member contributes freely available data to which each member has access.

The members will not only exchange information, but also living strains for the purpose of evaluating their interest in using the strains for biotransformations under a respective Material Transfer Agreement.

Furthermore, the SIBC is a platform where members might identify/evaluate joint interests or projects to pursue. The SIBC is actively involved in formulating innovation areas of relevance for Switzerland and supporting policies in industrial biotechnology in close cooperation with SBA and SGCI. The SIBC also supports selected activities, projects, congresses etc. in the field of biocatalysis or ‘white biotechnology’, respectively.