instrumentality

1. The state or quality of being instrumental.
2. A means; an agency.
3. A subsidiary branch, as of a government, by means of which functions or policies are carried out.

Federal agency whose obligations, while not direct obligations of the U.S. Government, are sponsored or guaranteed by the government and backed by the Full Faith and Credit of the government. Well over 100 series of notes, certificates, and bonds have been issued by such instrumentalities as Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, Federal Land Banks, Federal Home Loan Bank Board, and Student Loan Marketing Association.

noun

That by which something is accomplished or some end achieved: agency, agent, instrument, instrumentation, intermediary, mean³ (used in plural), mechanism, medium, organ. See means.