The Minnesota State Fair and the Minnesota Livestock Breeders’ Association are both invested in the educational endeavors of young adults from greater Minnesota. Their scholarship programs recognize deserving youth who are selected based on their leadership and achievement in youth livestock programs, as well as their involvement in the local community.
The Minnesota State Fair Scholarship program annually awards up to 22 scholarships of $1,000 each. These scholarships will be available to rural youth or those enrolled in an agriculture program in 2025-26. In addition, two $2,000 scholarships will be awarded to people of any age entering a skilled trade career or furthering their training. Since its inception in 1994, more than $600,000 has been awarded. The Minnesota State Fair Scholarships are funded by the Minnesota State Fair Foundation. The application for the Minnesota State Fair Scholarships must be submitted online by 4:30 p.m. July 15, 2026. Information about these scholarships can be found at mnstatefair.org/competitions/
The Minnesota Livestock Breeders’ Association, in conjunction with Minnesota 4-H and the 4-H Auction Committee, will award a minimum of $72,500 in scholarships to 4-H members furthering their education and work toward a post-secondary degree at an accredited college or university. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Aug. 1, 2026. Since the auction began in 1995, $959,000 has been awarded. More information and the applications for these scholarships can be found at mlbapurpleribbonauction.
The Minnesota State Fair Foundation’s nonprofit mission is to preserve and improve State Fair buildings, the fairgrounds and educational programs. Foundation funds benefit the fair in the areas of agricultural education, arts and culture, education, fairgrounds environment, and history and heritage. Visit msffoundation. org for more information.
The Minnesota State Fair is one of the largest and best-attended expositions in the world. Showcasing Minnesota’s finest agriculture, art and industry, the Great Minnesota Get-Together is 12 Days of Fun Ending Labor Day. The Minnesota State Fair is financially self-supporting and does not receive government funding. Revenue from ticket sales, percentages and fees paid by vendors, facility rental, sponsorships and other sources brings the fair to life - powering memorable experiences, world-class year-round operations, and exceptional care of the historic fairgrounds. Follow along on Facebook, X, Instagram and Threads @mnstatefair for updates. The 2026 Minnesota State Fair is Aug. 27 through Labor Day, Sept. 7. Visit mnstatefair.org for more information.
MINNESOTA STATE FAIR AND MINNESOTA LIVESTOCK BREEDERS’ ASSOCIATION OFFER YOUTH SCHOLARSHIPS WITH DEADLINES IN JULY AND AUGUST
