COLUMBUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Today, the Ohio Department of Development has unveiled the official program guidelines for the allocation of $10 million in grant funding, aimed at bolstering local fair accessibility and economic prosperity.
The County & Independent Fairs Grant Program seeks to bolster county and independent agricultural societies in enhancing and promoting their yearly exhibitions, ensuring the continued vibrancy of fairs as central community hubs.
Governor Mike DeWine emphasized, “Fairs are not merely platforms for agricultural education or community entertainment; they are living testaments to Ohio’s rich history and promising future. Through investments and enhancements to these cherished locales, we are forging traditions and memories for future generations of Ohioans.”
Lydia Mihalik, Director of Development, remarked, “Fairs represent an integral facet of Ohio’s cultural heritage. By fostering economic advancement and enhancing accessibility, we contribute to the preservation of our state’s diverse culture. Recognizing the indispensable role of local fairs in our state’s tapestry, we aim to cultivate sustainable growth and inclusivity from one community to the next.”
Eligible expenses encompass prospective costs for new equipment and machinery, technological advancements, property renovations or enhancements, infrastructure improvements, and upgrades to utilities or accessibility features compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Qualified applicants include county or independent agricultural societies as delineated in Ohio Revised Code Sections 1711.01 or 1711.02. Oversight of the program falls under the purview of the Department of Development.
This initiative’s funding stems from the backing of the 135th Ohio General Assembly via House Bill 33. Grants will be evenly distributed among all eligible applicants. The application window will open at 10 a.m. on March 1, accessible through the program webpage at development.ohio.gov/CountyFairs. Submissions will be accepted until 4 p.m. on April 30. Interested parties can register for email notifications via the provided link.
Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge affirmed, “Our county and independent fairs serve as unparalleled showcases of Ohio’s agricultural sector, each contributing significantly to narrating the story of Ohio agriculture. This fresh funding injection will ensure that fairgrounds continue as the heartbeat of local communities for years to come.”
Ohio boasts 94 county and independent fairs statewide, with the fair season officially commencing on June 8 with the Paulding County Fair and concluding on October 12 with the Fairfield County Fair. A comprehensive listing of Ohio’s fairs is accessible on the Department of Agriculture’s website.
The Ohio Department of Development endeavors to empower communities by investing in Ohio’s populace, locales, and enterprises. For further insights into our initiatives, visit development.ohio.gov.