As the year wraps up, the American Floral Endowment (AFE) is celebrating the many accomplishments across the industry. Thanks to generous donors, AFE has continued making meaningful strides to fund programs that strengthen the floral community.
In 2025, AFE awarded more than $750,000 to support 20 research projects focused on pest management, disease control, post production, technology, and other key areas. Forty students received scholarships and internships totaling more than $139,500 to help build the next generation of floriculture and horticulture professionals. Twenty four organizations received educational grants totaling more than $100,000 to support education, new programs, floral design, and young professional development. Five travel grants were also awarded to retail florists furthering their education.
The Sustainabloom program continues to expand through more than 20 SustainaGuides, industry spotlights, news, and resources centered on sustainability in the floral industry. Across AFE's educational efforts, more than 20 free training webinars were offered through Grow Pro, the Floral Marketing Fund, the Young Professionals Council, Sustainabloom, and Thrips & Botrytis, all presented by expert speakers. The Young Professionals Council now includes more than 100 members and fosters networking and professional growth for emerging leaders.
While there is much to celebrate, these accomplishments also reveal the growing demand for AFE's vital support. Each year, many deserving students, the future leaders of the floral industry, go without the financial help they need. At the same time, important research and educational programs aimed at solving industry challenges remain underfunded.
© American Floral Endowment
This year alone, more than 120 students applied for scholarships or internships but were unable to receive support. Rising research costs also left 14 projects unfunded. Looking ahead, 38 new research proposals have already been submitted for 2026–2027 funding, with priorities that include pest and disease management, production, and new technologies.
With uncertainty around government and alternative funding, the commitment to sustaining these programs is stronger than ever, but AFE cannot do it without you. AFE extends its sincere thanks to the 2025 donors. The full list can be viewed here. If you do not see your name, there is still time to give. With continued support, AFE can broaden its impact and ensure no potential goes untapped.
During this holiday season, please consider including AFE in your year end giving. A generous donor has pledged $25,000 in matching funds, which means every dollar donated will be matched two to one, tripling your impact. To take full advantage of this opportunity, donations must be made by December 31.
American Floral Endowment
Tel.: +1 (703) 838-5211
[email protected]
www.endowment.org
