The Department of Commerce is charged with promoting and protecting the economic interests of the United States.
Founded in 1903, the United States Department of Commerce is responsible for promoting the growth and development of U.S. business interests, both domestically and internationally. According to the Department of Commerce's Office of Management and Organization, the mission of the Department of Commerce is, "to foster, promote, and develop the foreign and domestic commerce." Department Organizational Order 1-1 defines eight duties of the Department of Commerce.
Creating National Policy
As a Cabinet-level agency, the Department of Commerce works with other government institutions to create national policies that are in line with the current administration's goals.
Protect and Promote the United States in International Trade
Through the International Trade Association, the Department of Commerce works to promote and protect U.S. economic interests in the area of international trade. This involves both setting policy and negotiating trade relationships.
Strengthening the U.S. Economic Position
This duty is performed by the Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security and also the Patent and Trademark Office. Patents and trademarks are an important part of protecting the United States' innovations and intellectual property.
Encouraging Innovation and a Progressive Domestic Business Policy
An example of this is the Minority Business Development Administration, which encourages diversity in business and economic opportunity for minorities and minority-owned businesses.
Promote a Better Understanding and Use of U.S. Natural Resources
Through its bureau the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Department of Commerce monitors atmospheric and weather conditions that might affect commerce. Issues involving natural resources, oceans and waterways and climate are also monitored and studied. NOAA operates the National Weather Service.
Encourage Growth of Scientific and Technical Resources
Advances in science and technology fuel economic growth and stability. The Department of Commerce provides grants to promote and encourage research and development of new technologies.
Collect, Analyze and Distribute Information
A high-profile responsibility of the Department of Commerce is to conduct a national census every 10 years. A special division, the Census Bureau, administers the census, analyzes the data and presents the results. The Department of Commerce also collects and disseminates information though other divisions such as the Economics and Statistics Administration and the National Technical Information Service.
Encourage Economic Progress
The Department of Commerce has regional offices throughout the United States that offer services to support small businesses and individuals, as well as many programs providing grants and information to stimulate the economy on a local and regional level.
