The first phase of the HANBIT project that started in 1996, is ending this year. The goal of the first phase is to establish a decent experimental facility based on the HANBIT mirror device and to set up a framework for operating this machine as a National Joint Users’ Facility. A five-year plan has been being undertaken to improve the performance of HANBIT, refurbished from the old TARA machine, by adding diagnostics and heating capacity. As the goal of the first phase has been achieved, the second phase is being planned, in which basic mirror confinement physics will be pursued as well as plasma applications and training of people. Most of new works are possible via close collaboration with external experts. We are exercising a new form of collaboration between universities and the institute and between industries and the institute through the HANBIT User Program, which is a key ingredient for successful operation of a National Users’ facility like the HANBIT device.