New AFE Research Application Process for 2019

Jennifer Zurko

The American Floral Endowment’s (AFE) Research Committee 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,” said AFE Research Coordinator Dr. Terril Nell.

In addition to the new application process, AFE has also fine-tuned its research priorities based on direct feedback from those in the industry. At the top of the list are pests and diseases, like thrips and Botrytis; 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. GT