Founded in 1901, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a non-regulatory federal agency within the U.S. Commerce Department's Technology Administration. NIST's mission is to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve our quality of life. NIST develops technologies, measurement methods and standards that help U.S. companies compete in the global marketplace. Congress created NIST in 1901 at the start of the Industrial Revolution to provide the measurement and standards needed to resolve and prevent disputes over trade and to encourage standardization. That's why you can have confidence that a gallon of milk contains one gallon and that the electric meter at your house accurately gauges how much electricity you use.
Today NIST continues to develop measurements and standards needed by industry, and also develops technologies that help our nation remain prosperous. Companies can apply for co-funding to develop innovative new technologies. NIST also helps manufacturers improve their productivity through a nationwide network of assistance centers.
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