For 65 years, the American Floral Endowment has supported the growth of the floral industry by funding research, education and professional development that help the floral community adapt, innovate and thrive.

Established in 1961, AFE was founded to ensure a strong, sustainable future for floriculture through industry-driven investment. Since then, the endowment has provided more than $23 million for research, educational grants, scholarships and internship programs — support that continues to shape the industry.

“These investments have touched every segment of floriculture,” said David Garcia, AFE board chairman and president of the Pete Garcia Co. “From innovative research that improves crop quality and sustainability to scholarships and internships that launch careers, AFE’s impact is woven into the fabric of our industry.”

What if the investments had never been made?

Without decades of coordinated funding through AFE, today’s floral industry would look markedly different. Advances in plant health, post-harvest handling, pest management and production efficiency would be less developed. Fewer students would have received scholarships and may have pursued alternative commodities offering financial aid, and fewer professionals would have had access to the education and mentorship needed to advance.

AFE’s work has helped ensure continued innovation, cultivate talent and keep the industry competitive in a rapidly changing environment.

Without sustained investment in sustainability education, the industry would face growing challenges, including limited tools to address environmental responsibility, workforce needs and shifting consumer expectations. Through Sustainabloom, a hub for practical sustainability education, AFE provides research-based guidance to businesses across the floral supply chain, supporting responsible growth and preparing the industry for future demands.

The challenge ahead

As AFE marks its 65th anniversary, it is also looking ahead. The costs of research, education and workforce development continue to rise, and without increased support, funding risks stagnation or decline at a time when innovation is more critical than ever.

At the same time, the floral community can no longer rely on outside funding sources to sustain this work. The future of floral research and education must be funded and supported by the industry itself. As the proverb notes, “many hands make light work,” underscoring the collective impact of broad participation.

“This is about taking ownership of our shared future,” said Ken Young of Phoenix Flower Shops, a past AFE chairman. “If we want strong research, prepared professionals and a vibrant next generation focused on our own interests, we must all commit to supporting AFE with regular financial contributions.”

A shared effort, a shared future

AFE is marking its anniversary with the release of a new explainer video illustrating how individual contributions come together to support a common goal. The video highlights the roles played by growers, wholesalers, retailers, suppliers, educators and individuals in sustaining programs that benefit the entire floral community.

Beyond financial support, AFE emphasizes the importance of participation. Volunteers support the organization by reviewing scholarship and internship applications, contributing content to newsletters, mentoring students and young professionals, and serving on committees or the AFE board of trustees.

“For 65 years, dedicated volunteers and leaders have helped guide AFE’s progress,” said Debi Chedester, CAE, executive director of AFE. “That spirit of service is just as important today and will be essential for the next 65 years.”