Feb 14, 2019

AFE Creates New Research Application Process for 2019

The American Floral Endowment’s Research Committee has announced a new research funding process and a revised application for 2019.

The new application process allows for a single application form to be used. For many years, AFE’s process required researchers to submit a pre-proposal application. Then, if preliminarily selected by the committee and industry members, it required a more detailed full proposal.

“We realized the time constraints on researchers, and in an effort to help streamline their requests for research funding, we developed the new process”, says Terril Nell, AFE’s research coordinator .

In addition to the new application process, AFE has updated its research priorities based on direct feedback from the industry. At the top of the list are pest and diseases, like thrips and Botrytis that are costing the industry millions. The research priorities include production and postharvest technologies, advanced breeding technology, long-term shipping and handling and automation leading to labor savings.

Researchers are encouraged to look at the complete list of the priorities at endowment.org/research, and submit the new research application form by the June 1 deadline.

For more information, contact Terril Nell at tnell@afeendowment.org.