Supported by the Government of Bangladesh, BIDS functions as a think tank, helping formulate socioeconomic policies.

In 1983, the Government created an endowment fund to ensure a source of recurring revenue for running the institute, thereby reducing its dependence on regular budgetary support, and enabling BIDS to enjoy more functional autonomy.

[3] The Publication Section publishes books, journals, policy briefs, monographs, and other reports for promoting a wide dissemination of bids research activities and findings.

The Section, with equipment to meet the institute's publishing requirements, also provides sales services to its local and foreign customers and promotes BIDS publication through complimentary and exchange programs.

It is widely read by students and researchers as well as by people of different walks of life interested in development issues.