AFE Scientific Research Pre-Proposal Applications Due June 1, 2008
Edwardsville, IL, April 8, 2008 - Pre-proposals for the 2009/10 AFE Funding cycle for Production and Post-Harvest Scientific Research is approaching. The due date for all Pre-Proposals is June 1, 2008. This provides time for the Trustees and the SAF Grower Council to review and select high impact pre-proposals for submission as Full Proposals.
The Priorities Areas are: Breeding and Genetics, Disease Management, Insect Management, Physiology, Production Technology/Protocols including Nutrition/Water Management, and Post-Production Management. The Endowment gives special consideration to creative projects from Non-Tenured Faculty and those involving Graduate Students. Proposals for AFE sponsored Public Benefits Research have a different time-line. All forms and additional information are available on the Endowment Website at www.endowment.org.
The AFE Production and Post-Harvest Scientific Research Funding System has a four step review process. This insures that the projects funded are relevant to the industry, carry the highest priority, are conducted by the best scientists in their field, and are fiscally responsible. The entire process is overseen by Dr. Gus De Hertogh, the AFE Research Coordinator who is a member of the Floriculture Hall of Fame and Professor Emeritus from North Carolina State University.
The current system involves: (1) Reviews by all segments of the industry, whom ultimately provide the research funds; (2) Peer reviews of the Full Proposals by established scientists; (3) Early notification of scientists of approved funding so Graduate Students can be recruited and begin the research as soon as the funds are released; and (4) All final decisions are made by the Full Board of Trustees after a thorough review by the AFE Production and Post-Harvest Research Committee, Chaired by Mr. Dave Niklas. This process ensures that the funds are allocated to projects that will ultimately benefit all segments of the industry.
The American Floral Endowment is the leading not-for-profit, non-governmental source for floricultural/environmental horticulture research and development funding in the United States. Its mission is to fund research and educational programs, finance scholarships and internships that foster a stronger floriculture industry. Tax-deductible contributions from all segments of the industry over the past 47 years have enabled the Endowment to invest over $13M to help fund solutions to industry needs. For additional information regarding the programs of the Endowment, visit our website: www.endowment.org.
AFE - Proudly supporting the floral industry since 1961.
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