The Friderik Irenej Baraga Institute was founded in 2007 by the newly-founded diocese of Novo mesto. Named after Friderik Irenej Baraga (1797–1868) who was a bishop, missionary and linguist. One of the main activities of the institute is running the Jurij Slatkonja Music Conservatory, but the premises of the institute are also used by Diocesan Caritas Novo mesto and Catechetical-Pastoral School, as well as by other groups and individuals.