What is the NNI?

The United States has set the pace for nanotechnology innovation worldwide with the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI). Launched in 2000 with eight agencies, the NNI today consists of the individual and cooperative nanotechnology-related activities of 26 Federal agencies with a range of research and regulatory roles and responsibilities. Fifteen of the participating agencies have research and development (R&D) budgets that relate to nanotechnology, with the reported NNI budget representing the collective sum of these investments. Funding support for nanotechnology R&D stems directly from NNI member agencies, not the NNI. As an interagency effort, the NNI informs and influences the Federal budget and planning processes through its member agencies and through the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC). The NNI brings together the expertise needed to advance this broad and complex field—creating a framework for shared goals, priorities, and strategies that helps each participating Federal agency leverage the resources of all participating agencies. With the support of the NNI, nanotechnology R&D is taking place in academic, government, and industry laboratories across the United States.

NNI Vision, Goals, and Objectives

The NNI envisions a future in which applications of nanotechnology will lead to a revolution in technology and industry that benefits society.

NNI Program Component Areas

Program component areas (PCAs) are the major subject areas under which the NNI groups related nanotechnology
R&D projects and activities.

Coordination of the NNI

Learn about the structure, organization, and various departments involved in the Federal Government's nanotechnology initiative.

NNI Budget

The 2013 Federal Budget provides $1.8 billion for the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI), reflecting steady growth in the NNI investment.