Are you a next generation floral industry professional? Or do you have next gen pros on your team? You’ve come to the right place!
Check out all of the events and resources specifically designed to connect, educate and inspire the rising stars in our industry.
Connect With Us!
SAF Next Gen Floral Pros Facebook Group
A private Facebook group for the future of floriculture. Welcoming all up-and-coming retail florists, flower growers, wholesalers, suppliers and floral designers under the age of 45.
Interested in receiving emails to stay up to date on SAF’s next-gen events and resources? Contact info@safnow.org
Next Gen Virtual Events
Bring your favorite beverage and take some time to connect with other Next Gen floral industry peers! Catch up with old friends, meet new ones, and chat about how things are going in your business.
Wednesday, January 7
11:00 AM EST
Grab your mug and pull up a seat!
The future of the floral industry is waiting for you at Next Gen LIVE! 2026, but before you pack your bags for Raleigh, let’s share a coffee at this virtual pep rally designed to get you registered, energized, and ready to lead.
This is your virtual coffee break where we’ll mix inspiration, insider secrets, and a whole lot of community. Think of it as your essential pre-conference huddle!
What We’re Bringing to the Rally:
- The Registration Jolt: We’ll spill the beans on exactly what you’ll miss if you don’t register now. Hear from past attendees who landed their biggest opportunities thanks to the connections they made.
- Meet Your Squad: Get a personal introduction to a few key Next Gen speakers and industry rockstars who will be at the live event.
- Raleigh Rally Ready: Insider Info: We’ll give you the need-to-know details about the host city and one “can’t-miss” element of the conference experience (like the Team Design Competition or the exclusive tour) that you can only experience in person.
This is your chance to sip, connect, and get the final push you need to commit to your future. Don’t miss out on the most influential event for young floral professionals—let the Next Gen LIVE! Pep Rally light the spark!
Coffee Chat events are FREE for all SAF members
Next Gen LIVE!
Join floral pros age 45 and under from all segments — retail, event, wholesale, importer, grower, and manufacturers — at an event designed for the next generation of industry leaders.
Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award is given to a young floral industry professional in recognition of their professional achievements and commitment to the industry.
- This award celebrates forward-thinking young professionals who demonstrate creativity, innovation, tenacity and leadership in their work and the potential to make a positive impact on the floral industry.
- The recipient of this award represents the promising future of the industry.
- Anyone in the floral industry (inclusive of all segments) ages 45 and under, can be nominated for the award.
Nominations stay active for a three-year period.
Nominations for 2025 have closed.