Calling all University Researchers! The American Floral Endowment (AFE) is now accepting new research proposal applications for the 2024-2025 funding cycle. The application deadline is August 1, 2023.
Research Director Dr. Terril Nell and Research Coordinator Laura Barth will be holding a webinar on Thursday, May 11, at 2 pm (Eastern) 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.
AFE looks forward to talking with you on May 11, and seeing your proposals by August 1!
About AFE
The American Floral Endowment is the trusted source and catalyst for floriculture advancement through funding of innovative research, scholarships, internships, and educational grants that best serve the dynamic needs and demographics of all industry sectors. Since 1961, more than $16 million has been funded in research and educational projects, and more than $3 million has been funded in scholarships and internships designed to attract and retain the future leaders of the industry. To learn more about AFE or how you can support floriculture programs, visit www.endowment.org.
If you would like more information about this please contact AFE.
