Plants, and those who sip starlight, have given us the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the homes we live in. Despite their utmost importance throughout human history, modern curricula and access to exploratory tools for plant research have not fully actualized their potential, especially in regions of the world not considered impactful enough to warrant significant funding for such efforts. We're interested in supporting a wide range of projects, from understanding how plants respond to environmental stress to exploring innovative cultivation techniques, plant bioengineering projects that teach the processes through engaging and thought-provoking hands-on labs, genetic studies diving into understudied species that have meaningful (agri)cultural value, or even novel uses of plants in technology, medicine, or ethnobotanical explorations. Our ideal candidates for this grant are people that are extremely passionate about making an impact in the craft and education of plant biology, regardless of their academic status or educational background. Good science happens everywhere, and we want to reach those with vision who would benefit greatly from a small dose of funding.

We encourage proposals that:

• Drastically reduce the barrier to entry for one or more aspects of plant biological research through the design and construction of open-source tools, with a focus on globally accessible materials and methods - minimizing costs while maximizing impact.
• Directly increase access to open-source, high-quality educational materials for students, particularly in the “global south,” to inspire and empower the next generation of plant biologists in a meaningful and materially impactful way.
• Present a unique research question or approach within plant biology and/or biotechnology that may lead to societal benefit or cultural preservation of botanical heritage.
• Act in service of an underserved demographic or educationally disenfranchised community, where plant biology and/or biotech would be used to educate and enrich the lives of those participating in a materially impactful way.
• Demonstrate clear potential for scientific advancement or practical application with a focus on openness and transparency.
• Can benefit from quick, catalytic funding to get started or to achieve a specific research milestone.

These are just a few examples that fit our expectations, but we are also very much interested in being surprised and inspired by the courage and foresight of a topic outside of what was mentioned above. Think deeply and sincerely.

Applications from academic researchers, independent scientists, citizen scientists, amateur biologists, and small research teams are all welcome. We particularly encourage cross-disciplinary projects that bring new perspectives to plant biology, its methods, and its education.