The national institute of building sciences is an independent 501(c)(3) NON-profit, NON-governmental organization that supports advances in building science and technology. NIBS was established by the u.s. Congress in the housing and community development ACT of 1974, public law 93-383. Congress recognized the need for an organization to serve as an interface between government and the private sector, one that serves as a resource to those that plan, design, procure, construct, use, operate, maintain, renovate, and retire physical facilities.