U. S. National Science Foundation

Founded in 1950, the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency dedicated to advancing scientific research and innovation across the United States. The organization offers funding and support for early-stage technology development through programs such as America's Seed Fund (SBIR/STTR), with a focus on startups and small businesses. Its services include non-dilutive grants and seed funding aimed at transforming scientific and engineering discoveries into commercially viable products and services. The agency facilitates over $200 million in annual R&D funding to approximately 400 startups nationwide, promoting innovation with commercial and societal impact.