The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is an independent Federal agency established by 22 U.S.C. 6563 that receives overall foreign policy guidance from the Secretary of State. Its principal statutory authority is the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended (22 U.S.C. 2151 et seq.).

USAID serves as the focal point within the Government for economic matters affecting U.S. relations with developing countries. USAID administers international economic and humanitarian assistance programs. The Administrator is under the direct authority and foreign policy guidance of the Secretary of State.

For more information on the U.S. Agency for International Development’s organization and activities, please visit the agency homepage at http://www.usaid.gov/.