YOUTH IMPACT GRANT
The Youth Impact Grant was created by the Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation to support youth who wish to participate in the Wisconsin State Fair Junior Shows.
Livestock projects provide youth with hands-on experience in agriculture while teaching responsibility, animal care, record keeping, leadership and communication skills.
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However, raising livestock can require a significant financial investment. The Youth Impact Grant helps reduce financial barriers by providing grants to youth exhibitors raising livestock projects in preparation for Wisconsin State Fair.
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Through this program, the Foundation aims to strengthen youth involvement in livestock production and invest in the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Grant Awards
Grants are available for youth exhibitors showing the following species in the Wisconsin State Fair Junior Livestock show:
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Beef – $2,500 each
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Swine – $1,500 each
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Sheep – $1,500 each
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Meat Goats – $1,500 each
Grant funds will be distributed in three installments tied to project updates to ensure participation and program engagement. The Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation may adjust payment timing, if necessary, based on program administration.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a grant, applicants must:
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Be eligible to participate in the Wisconsin State Fair Junior Livestock Show
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Plan to exhibit the species for which they are applying
Applicants who plan to exhibit more than one type of species may only apply for one species per year.
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Be willing to source, raise and care for the livestock project associated with the grant
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Complete the full application by May 1, 2026
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Demonstrate commitment to their livestock project and the agriculture industry
Applicants can only receive a grant once per species.
Note: Applicants should complete the written portions of the application themselves. Parents or guardians may assist with proofreading or clarification if needed, but responses should reflect the applicant’s own ideas and experiences.
Recipient Expectations
Selected exhibitors will be expected to fulfill the following program requirements:
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Livestock Project
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Source, raise and care for the livestock project described within their application.
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Exhibit the livestock project at the Wisconsin State Fair Junior Livestock Show in the species for which the grant was awarded.
If an exhibitor is unable to exhibit their livestock project due to circumstances outside of their control, such as animal illness, injury or death, the exhibitor must notify the Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation as soon as possible. The Foundation will review the situation on a case-by-case basis and determine whether the exhibitor may remain in the program or whether adjustments to the grant will be made.
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Program Representation
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Represent the grant program and Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation in a positive and respectful manner.
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Participate in recognition opportunities associated with the program, including photographs and promotional material.
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Attend the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction to interact with Auction buyers, sponsors and supporters.
If program requirements are not met, the Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation reserves the right to review criteria individually and determine appropriate action.
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Project Updates
Recipients will provide three project updates during the program. Each project update will include written question responses and at least one photo of the exhibitor and their livestock project.
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These updates allow the Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation to follow exhibitors’ progress and share the impact of the program to supporters.
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Project Update 1 – Learning & Progress
Due before June 15, 2026
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Project Update 2 – Wisconsin State Fair Experience
Due before August 25, 2026
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Project Update 3 – Final Reflection
Due before September 30, 2026
Failure to Meet Program Requirements
Recipients are expected to complete all program requirements and submit project updates by the stated deadlines.
Failure to meet program expectations may result in delayed grant payments, partial forfeiture of grant funds and/or removal from the program.
Application
All completed applications must be submitted by: May 1, 2026
Applications can be submitted via email or mail and should include exhibitor application and parent/guardian acknowledgement. Submissions should be submitted via email to auction@gbrla.com or via mail to Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation, Attn: Kallie Coates, 640 S. 84th St, West Allis, WI 53214.
Questions may be emailed to Kallie Jo Coates at auction@gbrla.com.