The Foundation is organized to foster understanding of the life and works of Robert E. Howard. Its goal is to honor Howard's legacy as a skillful, prolific and successful writer of fantasy, regional, horror, action and adventure stories in a wide variety of genres. The mission of the Foundation is to promote its belief in the importance of imagination and creative writing. To accomplish its goals and missions, Foundation purposes may include:

• acquiring, conserving and managing archives and collections related to Howard;
• serving as a research resource for scholars, historians, fans and others interested in Howard and his legacy;
• promoting, awarding and supporting scholarly efforts and young writers of the same genre;
• support of Robert E. Howard Days in Cross Plains, Texas, and the Robert E. Howard Annual Day;
• support of the maintenance and operation of Howard's home and museum in Cross Plains, Texas, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and owned by Project Pride, a community organization;
• making available through various channels all the works of Robert E. Howard.