The Benton Franklin Fair has a proud tradition of celebrating our region’s agricultural excellence. A key part of this mission is fostering youth involvement in the livestock industry. With that goal in mind, we are excited to announce the 2nd annual Benton Franklin Fair GALE Grants.
The GALE Grant (Growing Agriculture Leaders and Educators) will award four $1,100 grants to first-time large animal exhibitors (beef, sheep, dairy cattle, goats, horses, or swine) at the 2025 Benton Franklin Fair. Grant funds will be disbursed upon the completion of participation requirements and submission of all required documentation.
Applications are due March 13.
Grant eligibility and information:
- Residency: Be a Benton or Franklin County resident, or reside in the Burbank School District, and be between the ages of 8 and 18 as of the first day of the Fair.
- First-time exhibitor: Have no prior experience exhibiting livestock at the Benton Franklin Fair.
- Recommendation letter: Submit a letter of recommendation from a trusted source (e.g., 4-H leader, FFA advisor, teacher) that speaks to the applicant’s character and commitment.
- Fair participation: Exhibit their livestock project in the 4-H/FFA/Grange show at the Benton Franklin Fair (August 19-23, 2025). Failure to participate will result in forfeiture of the grant.
- Grant code of conduct: Sign and adhere to the code of conduct upon selection.
- Family applications: If multiple siblings apply, only one grant may be awarded per family.
- Project reports: Submit four monthly progress reports prior to the Fair, including a photo and brief summary of their work with the livestock.
- Final report: Provide a recap of their Fair experience, including three photos with their livestock and a summary of what was learned.
- Acknowledgments: Write thank-you notes to the Benton Franklin Fair Board of Directors and the grant funder.
- Reception attendance: Attend the grant winners’ reception during the Fair or other required appearances.
- Complete the online application.
We’re thrilled to provide this opportunity to cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders and educators. Don’t miss your chance to apply!