May 8, 2023
Submit research proposals for the 2024-25 funding cycle now

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) is now accepting new research proposal applications for the 2024-2025 funding cycle. The application deadline is Aug. 1, 2023.

Research director Terril Nell and research coordinator Laura Barth will be holding a webinar on Thursday, May 11, at 2 p.m. (EDT) to go over the application process and answer any questions that you have.

Topics covered will include:

Application timeline, from submission to notification
Overview of our new online application portal
Research priorities
What makes a good proposal?
Requirements for funded projects
Q & A session

Funding innovative research is a critical pillar of AFE’s mission to be the trusted source and catalyst for floriculture advancement. New research proposals should support forward-thinking exploration of cost and labor savings, pest and disease management, sustainability, and other solutions to promote not just healthier, longer-lasting flowers and plants, but a healthy and robust floriculture industry as well.

The primary research priorities are listed below. They are focused on all floricultural crops – bedding plants, fresh cut flowers, fresh cut greens, flowering potted plants and foliage plants.

Sustainable production and handling practices including water use efficiency and growing media
Reduction of the impact of climate change on production, handling and product quality
Biocontrol of pests
Advanced breeding technology, including CRISPR
Long-term storage and shipping conditions for cut flowers, bedding and potted plants
Production technology
Postharvest technology
Botrytis control and management
Thrips control and management
Automation, technology, and AI leading to labor savings

The Endowment’s fiscal year begins on July 1 and runs through June 30, therefore funding for projects begins in July of the next fiscal year.

Submit your research proposal here.