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
Register for the webinar here.
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.
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