Supporting education that inspires, informs, and prepares the floral industry for a bright future is one of AFE's core funding programs. This year, 17 organizations were awarded educational grants totaling $60,700.
The majority of AFE-funded projects are wide-reaching and focus on attracting young people to the industry, or are educational endeavors to identify and solve industry needs and challenges. This year's funding will support a diverse range of programs, from hands-on workshops and courses, to national conferences and online training that connect people and ideas.
© American Floral Endowment
"Educational opportunities are a cornerstone of industry growth," said AFE Education Committee Chair, Adam Van Winkle of Stadium Flowers. "With the continued support of our donors, these grants open doors for students, professionals, and organizations to learn, adapt, and thrive."
The 2025-26 educational grants awardees are as follows: America in Bloom will utilize the grant for their Educational Symposium, while the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) is set to bring FFA students to the AIFD 2026 Symposium in Orlando, Florida. The American Society for Horticultural Science will host their 2026 Annual Conference with support from these grants. Colorado State University will further their Nature Fit program, and the Great Lakes Floral Association will hold their 2026 Great Lakes Floral & Event Expo (GLFEE). The Midwest Greenhouse Short Course at Iowa State University, along with experiential learning opportunities at the Great Lakes Floral & Event Expo for students at Joliet Junior College, are also included. Kansas State University's Horticulture and Natural Resources Department will continue making floral design instruction accessible to FFA programs and students through these funds. The Ohio State University will produce E-Gro Alerts and Blogs and host the Ohio Floriculture and Nursery Education Conference. Penn State University will manage the 2026 National Floriculture Forum Conference. Seed Your Future will promote careers in the industry, while the Society of American Florists will sponsor tour locations at Next Gen LIVE! The South Dakota Floral Association is set for its annual convention, and the University of Florida will provide Greenhouse Training Online. The University of Georgia will offer Thrips Talk, and the Wisconsin & Upper Michigan Florists Association (WUMFA) will host their annual convention with the help of this funding.
© American Floral Endowment
These grants empower industry organizations to share knowledge, spark innovation, and nurture talent at every stage of a floral career. By encouraging lifelong learning and collaboration, these programs help create a stronger, more resilient industry. AFE congratulates all of this year's recipients and celebrates the impact their work will have in classrooms, greenhouses, and event spaces across the country. Applications for educational grants are due June 1 each year.
American Floral Endowment
Tel.: +1 (703) 838-5211
[email protected]
www.endowment.org
