AFE Research Proposals, Scholarship Applications Now Being Accepted

Jennifer Zurko

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) is calling for research proposal applications for the 2020-2021 funding cycle. Secure funding for your floriculture research project by applying before the June 1, 2020 deadline.

AFE's new application process established last year allows for a single application form to be used to help streamline the researcher's request for funding. Research projects can last from one to three years and any reasonable, but justifiable, budget will be considered. For the current 2019-2020 cycle, the Endowment is funding more than $500,000 in research.

The primary research funding priorities are relevant to all segments of the floral industry and include:

• Postharvest Technology

• Production Technology

• Advanced Breeding Technology, including CRISPR

• Long-Term Storage and Shipping Conditions for Cut Flowers, Bedding and Potted Plants

• Automation and Technology Leading to Labor Savings

• Botrytis Control and Management

• Thrips Control and Management

AFE's currently-funded research is available online, as well as final research reports from previously funded projects. Learn more about the application process and access the application form at endowment.org/research.

Applications are also now being accepted for 24 different scholarships through AFE for junior, senior and graduate students studying floriculture and horticulture. Applications must be submitted online by the May 1 deadline. Scholarships range from $500 to $6,000. In 2019, the Endowment awarded more than $42,300 in scholarships.   

Some of the scholarships are available for students interested in:

• Marketing/Sales

• Agribusiness

• Floral Design

• Greenhouse Production

• Ornamental Horticulture

• Integrated Pest Management

• Floriculture Research/Education

Descriptions of each scholarship, along with the undergraduate and graduate applications and requirements, are available at endowment.org/scholarships. GT