We're no longer accepting applications for this year's program. Details on this page apply to the Fiscal Year 2024 round of funding. The next application period opens in late fall 2024.
County Fair Grants help Minnesota county fairs preserve and promote Minnesota agriculture and provide access to the arts and the state’s agricultural, historical, and cultural heritage. Funds come from the Minnesota Legislature through the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation Program (AGRI) and the Legacy Amendment.
Notes for Fiscal Year 2024
- AGRI and Legacy funds will still be contracted separately. Your fair will receive two contracts if you receive both grants. AGRI funds will be available until spring 2027 (up to three years after the start date). Legacy funds will be available until June 30, 2025.
- You may ask for up to 50% of your AGRI award as an advance in your application. Like last year, these advances are not automatic. Your fair must have all prior grants closed out to be eligible for an AGRI advance.
- Before spending any money, you must have a fully executed grant contract agreement (signed by all parties). We'll review applications as we receive them. All applications are due no later than February 29, 2024.
Amount Available
Two types of grants are available. Your fair can apply for one or both.
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AGRI: Preserving and Promoting Minnesota Agriculture
- $1 million is available in equal shares to the state's county fairs. For 2024, each fair can apply for $10,175.
- AGRI funds must be used for projects that preserve and promote Minnesota agriculture. Project examples include sound equipment for judging in livestock barns, hand sanitizing stations in barns, fans for livestock barns, and agricultural education displays.
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Legacy: Promoting Minnesota Arts and Agricultural History
- $400,000 is available in equal shares to the state's county fairs. For 2024, each fair can apply for $3,755 (instead of $3,625).
- Legacy funds must provide access to the arts or the state’s agricultural, historical, and cultural heritage. Examples of eligible projects include spinning demonstrations, pottery workshops, antique farm equipment displays, and chainsaw artists.
Applicant Eligibility
County agricultural societies (i.e., county fairs) are eligible to apply.
Applying
The application period for the 2024 grant has ended. We expect the next application period to begin in late fall of 2024; check back for updated program materials.
To learn more about the program and start planning for next year, read last year's Request for Proposals (PDF). This grant program is subject to change so you should read the updated RFP when it's posted. You can also view our list of past projects and request a copy of an application to help you prepare. Contact us if you need this information in an alternative format.
