The American Floral Endowment believes continuing education is vital to the floral industry, particularly for small business owners and employees who rely on ongoing learning to remain inspired and competitive. To help make these opportunities more accessible, several grant programs support retail florists traveling to industry events, conferences and workshops where they can build skills, strengthen their businesses and spark creativity.

This year, five individuals received support through three travel education grant funds: the Retail Florist’s Continued Education Grant; the Ken and Jean Royer Family Fund – Retail Florist Education Travel Grant; and the Arizona Retail Floral Travel Education Grant. Each grant was established to expand educational access for brick-and-mortar retail florists, whether by assisting first-time attendees, supporting continued learning in specific regions or helping florists nationwide pursue hands-on training and professional development.

This year’s recipients are Emilie Richardson, Martha Whitney Butler, AIFD; Lorna Cooper, AzMF; Christina Ignatius, AIFD, EMC, PFCI, AzMF; and Annette Peck. Their grants supported meaningful educational experiences that brought fresh ideas and renewed inspiration back to their businesses.

The next application deadline is Oct. 1, 2026.

Emilie Richardson — Smith’s Florist & Gift Shoppe
Retail Florist’s Continued Education Grant

“Thank you for selecting our shop to receive the grant. Attending the conference was expensive, and we can’t do it every year. Education and networking are necessary to maintain relevance in our industry, and this grant helps a small shop like ours participate in larger industry events.

“Our industry has faced many pressures this year, and I was looking for information that would help us make better business decisions, as well as perspectives from the many roles represented at the conference. Several sessions presented new information that wasn’t even on my radar. I don’t know where else I would have learned about these topics.

“I was also delighted to meet wonderful people, have lively conversations and make new connections. I left the conference feeling inspired and energized, with a broader view beyond my everyday bubble. I truly appreciate the support you provide to us and the other shops you’ve funded.”

Martha Whitney Butler, AIFD — The French Potager LLC
Ken and Jean Royer Family Fund – Retail Florist Education Travel Grant

“Being awarded the Ken and Jean Royer Family Travel Grant is such an honor. This opportunity allows me to pursue training at the NGC Flower Show School and deepen my commitment to education and service within the floral industry. I’m grateful for the support and excited to share what I learn with my community.”

Lorna Cooper, AzMF — Brady’s Floral
Ken and Jean Royer Family Fund – Retail Florist Education Travel Grant

“I’m grateful to be selected for the Ken and Jean Royer Family Travel Grant. Attending the SAF Next Gen Conference is an exciting opportunity to learn, connect and grow. I look forward to bringing back new knowledge and skills to share with my business and industry peers.”

Christina Ignatius, AIFD, EMC, PFCI, AzMF — Flower Bar
Arizona Retail Floral Education Travel Grant

“I am sincerely honored to be selected as a recipient of the Arizona Travel Grant and extend my gratitude to the American Floral Endowment for its dedication to continuing education within the floral industry.

“This grant supports my pursuit of International Master Florist certification at the Boerma Instituut in Aalsmeer, Netherlands, taught by Gregor Lersch. The program allows me to study innovative floral design techniques, nomenclature and advanced theory. The expertise gained will enable me to contribute meaningfully to the floral community by sharing knowledge, fostering creativity and promoting professional excellence.”

Annette Peck — Persimmon Petals
Ken and Jean Royer Family Fund – Retail Florist Education Travel Grant

“I am honored and grateful to receive the Ken and Jean Royer Family Travel Grant. This support allows me to attend the 2026 AIFD Symposium and participate in an exceptional floral education experience. I hope to gain insight into new trends and techniques to share with my colleagues and community. I look forward to the inspiration this opportunity will provide.”

As the industry looks toward a new year, donor support helps make opportunities like these possible. Every gift to the American Floral Endowment provides florists with access to education, training and events that strengthen both their skills and their businesses. Those inspired by this year’s recipients are encouraged to help more florists learn, grow and succeed by making a donation.