This study evaluates the budget performance of research programs at the National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT) Timor-Leste for the period 2021–2024 using the Value for Money (VfM) framework. While previous research highlights high administrative budget absorption, the link between financial inputs and policy outcomes remains under-analyzed. This research employs a descriptive quantitative approach, integrating internal financial records totaling $233,500 and survey responses from 72