Pre-proposals open until 24 October 2025

The Washington Tree Fruit Research Commission invites proposals for research that strengthens crop protection in apple orchards. This call is part of the Apple Crop Protection Research Priorities 2026 program. Pre-proposals can be submitted until 24 October 2025. Priorities include, where relevant, the use of organic practices and the protection of pollinators. There is specific interest in methods that measure labor use and reduce manual work in orchards. Collaboration between institutions and across states is encouraged. Each proposal should include an element for industry engagement. The Technology Roadmap is available as background reference.

Practical results in the orchard

Research with visible impact is preferred. Show how your approach benefits growers in the field. Describe where labor can be organized more efficiently and where manual work can be reduced. Demonstrate how your project aligns with organic practices and contributes to the protection of bees and other pollinators.

Collaboration and impact

Projects that connect institutions, regions, and companies receive extra attention. The commission encourages collaboration to ensure that new knowledge reaches practice more quickly. Each proposal should explain how the results will be shared with growers and businesses.

From research to practice with Orchard of the Future

Orchard of the Future shares this focus on collaboration and knowledge exchange. By linking insights from research with daily practice, we help innovations reach the orchard faster and strengthen the sector with greater stability, safety, and profitability.

More information and grant application

Consult the Technology Roadmap for additional context and background. All program details and information on submitting pre-proposals are available on the website of the Washington Tree Fruit Research Commission.

Applications are open until 24 October 2025.