The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 to promote the progress of science, advance national health, prosperity, and welfare, and secure national defense. It funds approximately 25% of all federally supported basic research conducted by America's colleges and universities. The NSF supports research and education in all non-medical fields of science and engineering, providing grants and cooperative agreements to researchers, educators, and institutions. Key historical milestones include the establishment of the NSFNET in the 1980s, which laid the groundwork for the modern internet.