American Floral Endowment (AFE) Marks 65 Years of Investing in the Floral Industry’s Future

For 65 years, the American Floral Endowment (AFE) has stood at the heart of the floral industry’s progress, funding research, education, and professional development that has fueled progress and helped the floral community grow, adapt, and thrive.

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

“These investments have touched every segment of floriculture,” said AFE Board Chairman, David Garcia, President of the Pete Garcia Company. “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, the floral industry today would look very different. Advances in plant health, post-harvest handling, pest management, and production efficiency wouldn’t be as defined. Fewer students would have received scholarships and potentially looked to alternative commodities who offered financial aid. And fewer professionals may have had access to the education and mentorship needed to advance.

AFE’s work has helped ensure that innovation continues, talent is cultivated, and the industry remains competitive in a rapidly changing world.

Without continued investment in sustainability education, the industry would face growing challenges with fewer shared tools to address environmental responsibility, workforce needs, and shifting consumer expectations. Through Sustainabloom, a hub for practical sustainability education, AFE is helping ensure businesses across the floral supply chain have access to research-based guidance that supports responsible growth today and prepares the industry for what comes next.

The Challenge Ahead
As AFE marks this milestone, it also looks forward with clarity and resolve. The cost of research, education, and workforce development continues to rise. Without increased support, funding levels risk stagnation or decline at a time when the industry needs innovation more than ever. 

At the same time, the floral community can no longer rely on out-of-industry funding sources to sustain this work. The future of floral research and education must be funded and supported by the industry itself. As the old proverb goes, “many hands make light work,” which highlights the power behind everyone giving something back at some level.

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

A Shared Effort, A Shared Future
AFE is celebrating its 65th anniversary with the release of a new explainer video that illustrates how individual contributions come together to support a common goal. The video highlights how growers, wholesalers, retailers, suppliers, educators, and individuals all play a role in sustaining the programs that benefit the entire floral community.

But AFE’s call to action goes beyond financial contributions. Participation is equally vital. Volunteers power AFE’s mission by:

• Reviewing scholarship and internship applications
• Contributing content and insights to newsletters
• Serving as mentors to students and young professionals
• Participating 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.”

Get Involved
Looking ahead, AFE is seeking like-minded organizations and individuals who want to help shape the future of floriculture. Whether through giving, volunteering, or leadership, everyone has a role to play.

To learn more about how you can get involved, support the mission, or volunteer, reach out to AFE today and be part of the community investing in the floral industry’s future. AFE welcomes the opportunity to partner and collaborate with individuals, businesses, and other industry organizations.