United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is an independent agency of the United States government that provides foreign aid to developing countries. USAID's mission is to "promote and sustain economic growth and improve the lives of people in developing countries."

USAID was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy. The agency's original mandate was to provide economic and technical assistance to developing countries in order to promote economic growth and reduce poverty. Over the years, USAID's mandate has expanded to include a wide range of activities, including humanitarian assistance, democracy and governance programs, and environmental protection.

USAID is funded by the U.S. Congress. In fiscal year 2023, USAID's budget was $35.6 billion. The agency's funding is allocated through a variety of mechanisms, including annual appropriations, supplemental appropriations, and trust funds.

USAID is headquartered in Washington, D.C., but it has offices in more than 100 countries around the world. The agency employs a staff of approximately 10,000 people, including both U.S. citizens and foreign nationals.

USAID's work is guided by a set of core values, including:

* * *Partnership:* USAID works in partnership with developing countries to design and implement development programs.
* * *Empowerment:* USAID believes that the best way to help people in developing countries is to empower them to help themselves.
* * *Accountability:* USAID is committed to transparency and accountability in its work.

USAID's work has had a significant impact on the lives of people in developing countries. Since 1961, USAID has helped to improve the lives of more than 2 billion people. USAID's programs have helped to reduce poverty, improve health, promote education, and protect the environment.

USAID is a leading global development agency. The agency's work is essential to improving the lives of people in developing countries and promoting a more just and prosperous world.