The ISAP is a non-profit organization that aims to promote research and the dissemination of knowledge concerning the utilization of algae. In order to meet these objectives, the ISAP promotes the following activities:

• Organizes triennial meetings, encouraging wide participation from academia and industry.
• Forms an informed source of expertise among members who could provide an accurate, disinterested opinion. concerning algal products or relating to environmental impact.
• Forms links and affiliations with existing national and regional organizations of applied phycology.
• Promotes the exchange of students and researchers.
• Applies for special grants and donations from international bodies, governments and industry to support activities of the Society.

• Issues an electronic newsletter to publicize activities.

• Organizes workshops and training programs.

• Supports culture collections of algae.

• Organizes exhibitions of commercial algal products and similar pertinent exhibits along the triennial meetings.