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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFor over 60 years, AFE has been the floral industry\u2019s trusted source for funding groundbreaking research, offering scholarships and internships to develop the next generation, and supporting industry-wide education. These programs don\u2019t just happen \u2013 they depend on contributions from individuals and businesses that believe in the long-term strength of floriculture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
AFE is an autonomous, charitable organization that collaborates with universities, associations, and businesses across all segments of the floral industry. Its mission-driven approach allows donors to support the areas that matter most to them, such as education, sustainability, scholarships, workforce development, or critical research.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n A recent change in tax law underscores this shift in responsibility. The newly signed federal legislation requires corporations to donate at least 1% of their taxable income<\/strong> for any charitable contributions to be tax-deductible<\/strong>. This new \u201cgiving floor\u201d aims to discourage minimal, token donations and instead set a clear benchmark for meaningful corporate philanthropy. It provides a powerful incentive for companies to step up and an opportunity for nonprofits like AFE to benefit from increased giving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While the 10% cap on deductible donations remains, corporations that don\u2019t meet the 1% threshold can no longer claim any deduction. For floral industry businesses, this is a call to action. Supporting AFE helps ensure that floriculture continues to thrive through scientific advancement, skilled professionals, and a more resilient industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And it\u2019s not just corporations that can make a difference \u2013 new tax incentives are also making it easier for individuals to give. Beginning in 2026, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduces an above-the-line deduction for cash gifts: up to $1,000 for single filers and $2,000 for joint returns. This means that even non-itemizers can benefit from charitable giving, offering a valuable incentive for broader personal support of nonprofits like AFE. As always, donors should consult their advisors to navigate the evolving tax landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Without industry support, the consequences could be steep: a slowdown in research breakthroughs, fewer young professionals entering the field, and an overall weakening of our industry\u2019s ability to compete and grow. Research is more expensive than ever before, and without increased support, fewer projects can be funded, leaving many of our most pressing industry challenges unanswered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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