National Science Foundation (NSF), Initiative Lead and Funder
The NSF is 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...." With an annual budget of about $6.06 billion, the NSF is the funding source for approximately 20 percent of all federally supported basic research conducted by America's colleges and universities. In many fields, such as mathematics, computer science, and the social sciences, the NSF is the major source of federal backing.
The NSF's goals—discovery, learning, research infrastructure, and stewardship--provide an integrated strategy to advance the frontiers of knowledge; cultivate a world-class, broadly inclusive science and engineering workforce; expand the scientific literacy of all citizens; build the nation's research capability through investments in advanced instrumentation and facilities; and support excellence in science and engineering research and education through a capable and responsive organization.
Learn more: National Science Foundation
Education Development Center, Inc. (EDC), Communication and Dissemination Support
EDC is a global nonprofit organization that develops, delivers, and evaluates innovative programs to address some of the world’s most urgent challenges. Working with public-sector and private partners, we harness the power of people and systems to improve education, health promotion and care, workforce preparation, communication technologies, and civic engagement. Its services include research, training, educational materials and strategy, with activities ranging from seed projects to large-scale national and international initiatives. EDC enjoys a worldwide reputation for its excellence in program and fiscal management and for the impact of its work.
Learn More: Education Development Center, Inc.
National Research Council (NRC), Report Authoring Organization
The National Research Council was organized by the National Academy of Sciences in 1916 to associate the broad community of science and technology with the Academy’s purposes of furthering knowledge and advising the federal government. Functioning in accordance with general policies determined by the Academy, the Council has become the principal operating agency of both the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering in providing services to the government, the public, and the scientific and engineering communities. The Council is administered jointly by both Academies and the Institute of Medicine. Dr. Ralph J. Cicerone and Dr. Charles M. Vest are chair and vice chair, respectively, of the National Research Council.