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The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a non-regulatory agency of the United States Department of Commerce. It is responsible for promoting innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve quality of life. NIST's mission is to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve our quality of life. NIST has a wide range of activities, including developing standards for industry, conducting research on emerging technologies, providing technical assistance to businesses, and providing laboratory testing services. NIST also works with other government agencies, universities, industry groups, and international organizations to develop consensus-based standards that are used in the United States and around the world.