National Institute of Standards and Technology

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a federal agency within the Department of Commerce that drives American innovation and industrial strength. NIST plays a vital role in creating the standards and frameworks that support diverse sectors, from manufacturing to cybersecurity, ensuring U.S. businesses remain competitive and secure. Its work spans technical guidelines, voluntary frameworks, and partnerships with thousands of experts nationwide.

Standards Development and Measurement

NIST develops essential standards that underpin product quality and system safety across industries. Discover how NIST builds the rules that govern industries, supporting everything from automotive safety to electrical systems with over 1,300 Standard Reference Materials used by industry, academia, and government.

Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Protection

To combat evolving cyber threats, NIST created the Cybersecurity Framework, a voluntary but widely adopted guide that helps U.S. businesses identify, protect against, detect, respond to, and recover from cyberattacks. This framework is a cornerstone for building resilient cybersecurity programs across critical infrastructure and beyond.

Supporting Small and Mid-Sized Manufacturers

NIST’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) is a nationwide network that empowers small and mid-sized manufacturers with expert consulting and training. MEP helps manufacturers improve efficiency, adopt new technologies, expand markets, and strengthen supply chains, fueling job creation and economic growth across the country.

Why NIST Matters

Understanding how NIST keeps America running shows the crucial yet often unseen work behind the systems that power daily life. Whether ensuring product quality, securing business data, or supporting manufacturing, NIST’s standards and frameworks are foundational to America’s economic strength and security.