U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is an independent agency of the United States government that provides foreign aid to countries around the world. USAID's mission is to "promote and sustain economic growth and development, strengthen democratic institutions, and improve the lives of people around the world."

USAID was created in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy. The agency's first director was David Bell, who served from 1961 to 1963. Since then, USAID has had 18 directors, the most recent of whom is Samantha Power.

USAID's budget is appropriated by Congress. In fiscal year 2023, USAID's budget was $35.6 billion. The agency's funding is used to support a variety of development programs, including:

* Economic growth and development
* Education
* Health
* Nutrition
* Water and sanitation
* Governance and civil society
* Conflict prevention and peacebuilding

USAID works with partners in developing countries to design and implement these programs. The agency also provides technical assistance and training to help partners build their capacity to deliver development results.

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 more than 10,000 people, including both U.S. citizens and foreign nationals.

USAID is a leading provider of foreign aid in the world. The agency's work has helped to improve the lives of millions of people around the world. USAID is committed to working with partners to build a more prosperous and just world.

In addition to its development programs, USAID also plays a role in U.S. foreign policy. The agency's work helps to promote U.S. interests by strengthening partner countries' economies and democracies. USAID also helps to prevent conflict and promote peacebuilding.

USAID is an important part of the U.S. government's efforts to promote global development and security. The agency's work is making a difference in the lives of millions of people around the world.