In February 2016, a memorandum of understanding on cooperation between Shota Rustaveli National Science Foundation and the associated Universities (ORAU) has been signed. The aim of the memo of understanding is to enhance the current cooperation between these twso parties and increase the popularity of the research politics these two parties conduct. The memo is based on the principles of equality and mutual benefit. Moreover, it is in both of these institutions common interest, to share the information, experiences and activitires, such as research funding, international research cooperation and scientific communication.

On the basis of the agreement, ORAU will evaluate with the help of the independent experts, the received applications in the DI competition, and provide an objective review by the international standards. 

Within the scope of the above-mentioned memorandum, the Vice President of the Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) – Mr. Tony Lester visited Georgia. Mr. Lester held a meeting with the Minister of Education and Science – Mr. Aleksandre Jejelava,  as well as with the representatives of the Ministry of Innovation and Technology Agency and the National Intellectual Copyright Center. Furthemore, Mr. Lester held various meetings with the universities and research institutions representatives, where they discussed ORAU-'s activities and the prospects of having a mutual collaboration.

During the visit, Mr. Tony Lester also visited the University of Agriculture, Korneli Kekelidze National Center of Manuscripts, and the National Museum of Innovation and Technology Agency.