The County Fairs Capital Improvement Grants from MDARD fund projects that upgrade and extend the life of Michigan county fairground facilities.
Funder: Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Grant Proposals due)
Funding Amounts: Up to $100,000 per project; 50% cash match required; minimum award $1,000; typical total program funding ~$480,000 per cycle.
Summary: Supports building and capital improvements to extend the life and value of Michigan county fairgrounds.
Key Information: Limit one proposal per fair association; prior-year awardees ineligible for consecutive cycles.
The County Fairs Capital Improvement Grants program, administered by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), provides funding to support structural renovations and capital improvements at county fairgrounds throughout Michigan. The goal is to extend the useful life, increase the value, and improve the utility and productivity of fairground facilities, ensuring that these important community spaces remain vibrant and functional for both fair and non-fair events.