Feb 2, 2026

AFE marks 65 years in 2026

Established in 1961, the American Floral Endowment (AFE) has stood at the heart of the floral industry’s progress, funding research, education and professional development that has fueled progress and helped the floral community grow, adapt and thrive.

AFE was founded to ensure a strong, sustainable future for floriculture through industry-driven investment. Since then, the endowment has provided more than $23 million in funding for research, educational grants, scholarships and internship programs.

“These investments have touched every segment of floriculture,” said AFE board chairman David Garcia, president of the Pete Garcia Co. “From innovative research that improves crop quality and sustainability, to scholarships and internships that launch careers, AFE’s impact is woven into the fabric of our industry.”

Photo courtesy of AFE.