Agricultural Premium Program
The Kentucky Agricultural Premium Program funds local fairs to support agricultural exhibits, research, education, and fairground infrastructure through matching grants for science-focused events and improvements.
Funder: Kentucky Department of Agriculture
Due Dates: March 1, 2027 (Request for State Aid) | April 1, 2027 (Livestock Show Info Forms) | October 1, 2026 (County Fair Grant Application) | December 1, 2026 (Financial Report)
Funding Amounts: Up to $4,500/year per fair for premiums (matching funds); up to $100,000 for capital grants (75% state/25% local match); minimum $10,000 for capital grants; additional amounts for horse events and harness racing.
Summary: Provides matching state funds to support premiums, awards, and infrastructure at Kentucky local agricultural fairs.
Key Information: Strict annual reporting and catalog requirements; only incorporated fair boards are eligible.
Description
The Agricultural Premium Program, administered by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, supports local agricultural fairs by providing matching state funds for premiums and awards in agricultural-related exhibits, shows, and contests. Eligible activities include livestock shows, crop and produce displays, poultry, bees and honey, farming-related judging contests, food preservation, youth project classes (4-H, FFA, FHA), and additional categories such as flowers, clothing, home furnishings, handicrafts, and antiques. The program also offers capital grants for fairground improvements and infrastructure.
Matching funds are awarded based on local fair spending in approved categories, subject to compliance with program rules and annual reporting. The program is overseen by the Commissioner of Agriculture and the Kentucky Fair Council.
