National Geographic Society operates as a nonprofit scientific and educational organization. It offers journals, magazines, curriculum-based classroom magazines, content literacy programs, television documentaries, television channels, photography projects, music, radio, films, books, DVDs, maps, school publishing programs, interactive media, and merchandise. The company also provides funds for scientific research, conservation, and exploration projects, as well as supports an education program combating geographic illiteracy. In addition, it conducts mission programs that recognizes scientists and explorers, as well as offers field research and exploration, arts media and special projects, and lectures, exhibits and public programs. The company was founded in 1888 and is based in Washington, District of Columbia.