AFE honoring Frank Biddle through the CalFlowers scholarship
AFE honoring Frank Biddle through the CalFlowers scholarship
The American Floral Endowment announced that one of its long-standing scholarships has been renamed to honor Frank Biddle, an extraordinary leader, mentor and friend to many across the floral industry.
Established in 2017, the CalFlowers Scholarship has supported students passionate about floriculture. It now carries a new name, the CalFlowers Frank Biddle Memorial Scholarship, ensuring that Frank’s legacy of mentorship and innovation continues to inspire future generations.
Investing in Future Leaders
The scholarship provides critical support to undergraduate students pursuing higher education and careers in floriculture. Priority is given to students attending accredited colleges and universities in California, though California residents enrolled elsewhere in the United States. are also eligible.
While applicants are not required to major in agriculture, they must demonstrate a clear commitment to entering the floral industry after graduation. Students outside agricultural programs must have relevant work experience or internships in floriculture, and recipients are required to maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Frank Biddle was a strong advocate for education and mentorship, always encouraging young professionals to learn, grow and thrive. This scholarship ensures that his passion and dedication live on through every student it supports.
A Lasting Legacy
More than an entrepreneur, Frank Biddle was a visionary whose ideas transformed how flowers move from farms to customers. As founder of Dos Gringos, Francis Biddle International (FBI Flowers), and Tradewinds International, he reshaped floral supply chains across the Americas, making fresh blooms more accessible than ever.
Within CalFlowers, Frank served as a past President and longtime Board member, leaving an enduring impact through his entrepreneurial spirit, generosity, and leadership. He passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, at the age of 60, but his influence continues to shape the industry he helped build.
“Frank was instrumental in championing the establishment of the scholarship while on the CalFlowers Board. He believed in supporting AFE and empowering the next generation. Renaming the fund honors his legacy and continues his impact on our industry,” CalFlowers Executive Director Lane DeVries.
Continuing His Impact
Through the CalFlowers Frank Biddle Memorial Scholarship, Frank’s legacy will continue to support students who share his passion, creativity, and drive. The scholarship stands as a testament to how one individual’s vision and generosity can open doors for countless others.
AFE expressed deep gratitude to CalFlowers and all partners who support scholarships, internships, and young professional development—ensuring that the floral industry continues to thrive and that leaders like Frank Biddle inspire generations to come.
“Frank was instrumental in championing the establishment of the scholarship while on the CalFlowers Board. He believed in supporting AFE and empowering the next generation. Renaming the fund honors his legacy and continues his impact on our industry.”
Continuing His Impact
Through the CalFlowers Frank Biddle Memorial Scholarship, Frank’s legacy will continue to support students who share his passion, creativity, and drive. The scholarship stands as a testament to how one individual’s vision and generosity can open doors for countless others.
AFE expressed deep gratitude to CalFlowers and all partners who support scholarships, internships, and young professional development—ensuring that the floral industry continues to thrive and that leaders like Frank Biddle inspire generations to come.