The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) is a U.S. government agency established in 1965 to support and promote the arts. It provides funding for various artistic projects, including visual arts, music, theater, and literature, aiming to enhance public access to the arts and encourage creativity across the nation. The NEA awards grants to individuals, organizations, and communities, helping to fund programs that foster artistic expression and cultural enrichment. By supporting initiatives in schools, local communities, and nonprofit organizations, the NEA plays a vital role in ensuring that the arts remain an integral part of American life.