About
The Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust provides competitive grants to organizations advancing horticulture and plant sciences. With a strong emphasis on applied projects that benefit communities and ecosystems, the Trust supports initiatives that strengthen food systems, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture.
The grant process begins with a Letter of Inquiry (LOI), followed by a full proposal if invited. Please note that an invitation to submit a proposal does not guarantee funding. In 2025, only 18% of invited proposals were funded, underscoring the highly competitive nature of this program.
Eligibility Criteria
- Grants are awarded to organizations only (not individuals).
- Eligible applicants include:
- Research institutions and universities
- Nonprofits and NGOs
- Botanical gardens and horticultural organizations
- Requests must align with the Trust’s Funding Interests.
- The Trust does not fund:
- General operating support
- Endowments or capital campaigns
- Grants to individuals
Target Audience
This opportunity is designed for:
- Agricultural and horticultural researchers advancing plant science.
- Organizations working on food security, biodiversity, and conservation.
- NGOs and institutions promoting community-based horticultural education.
- Projects that connect horticulture with nutrition, rural development, and sustainability.
Package Inclusion
- Maximum grant: $25,000 (most awards do not exceed $20,000).
- Grants may cover full or partial funding of the requested amount.
- Grant period: January 1 – December 31, 2027 (for awards made in November 2026).
- Funding is strictly for project support.
Application Process
- Letter of Inquiry (LOI):
- Deadline: June 15, 2026
- Initial screening to determine alignment with Trust priorities.
- Full Proposal (if invited):
- Deadline: July 15, 2026
- Detailed project plan, budget, and expected outcomes.
- Reporting:
- Grantees must submit a report confirming that funds were used for the intended purpose.
Selection Procedure
- Highly competitive process; not all eligible proposals are funded.
- Evaluation criteria include:
- Alignment with Trust’s Funding Interests.
- Scientific and community impact of the project.
- Feasibility and clarity of objectives.
- Final decisions are made by the Trust’s Board of Trustees.
Deadline
- Letter of Inquiry (LOI): June 15, 2026
- Invited Full Proposal: July 15, 2026
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by Agri-web. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the official websites and portals of this opportunity for complete program details and verified application instructions. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to exercise due diligence before submitting any personal or sensitive information.
To apply for this job please visit smithht.org.