The U.S. National Science Foundation funds a significant proportion of all federally supported basic research conducted by America's colleges and universities. We are an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 to "promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense ...." NSF plays a vital role in the science community, investing in research and people to create knowledge that transforms the future. Come find out "Where discoveries begin." nsf.govand 5 more links