NENA and HRI Announce a New Type of Fund

Jennifer Zurko

The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) and the New England Nursery Association (NENA) announced the creation of the New England Nursery Association Industry Growth Fund, a new type of grant program through HRI. The Industry Growth Fund was formally created at a signing ceremony during New England Grows in Boston in January. This new purpose-restricted fund was designed to allow grants to be drawn from both the interest and the principal as needed.

The new alliance brings together Horticultural Research Institute’s 52-year history as the horticulture industry’s leading green industry research and educational foundation and NENA’s vision to maximize organizational funds, collaborate closely with experts and put investment monies to work where they will directly help New England commercial horticulture industry. Signing on behalf of the Horticultural Research Institute was Dr. Joseph Albano, Research Programs Director.

“NENA members are excited to support the kind of innovation and new thinking that will ultimately shape the future of the horticulture profession,” said Peter House, NENA President. “Our collaboration with Horticultural Research Institute—through this new Industry Growth Initiative—enables NENA to make significant contributions and continue to move the industry forward.”

The new NENA/HRI Industry Growth Initiative is designed to support such projects as:

• “Local-to-NENA” platforms that build community and promote collaboration
• Economic impact studies that bolster the industry
• Marketing strategies that boost sales of plants and services
• Research that provides scientifically proven answers to critical questions
• Education to engage the next generation
• Programs to support and inspire tomorrow’s horticultural workforce

The Horticultural Research Institute’s mission is to direct, fund, promote and communicate horticulture research. Founded in 1962, it has provided more than $6.5 million in funds to research projects covering a broad range of production, environmental and business issues important to the green industry. Nearly $11 million is committed to the endowment by individuals, corporations and associations. HRI is the recognized research affiliate of AmericanHort. For more information about HRI, its grant-funded research or programming, visit www.hriresearch.org or contact Jennifer Gray at (614) 884-1155. GT