The NNI is a U.S. Government research and development (R&D) initiative involving the nanotechnology-related activities of 20 departments and independent agencies. The United States set the pace for nanotechnology innovation worldwide with the advent of the NNI in 2000. The NNI today consists of the individual and cooperative nanotechnology-related activities of Federal agencies with a range of research and regulatory roles and responsibilities. Funding support for nanotechnology R&D stems directly from NNI member agencies. 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 PCAs
The NNI envisions a future in which applications of nanotechnology will lead to a revolution in technology and industry that benefits society. 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 2021 Federal Budget provides more than $1.7 billion for the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI), affirming the important role that nanotechnology continues to play in the Administration’s innovation agenda.
Federal Legislation and Congressional Information
Learn about the annual authorization and appropriation process for the National Nanotechnology Initiative and nanotechnology-related Congressional hearings and events.