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Creating a space where leaders can grow

For over 80 years, the 4‑H Building has been the heart of Minnesota 4‑H at the Minnesota State Fair. Built in the late 1930s, it has been the platform for generations of purple ribbon moments. But while today's 4‑H'ers are programming robots, launching businesses and tackling challenges past generations couldn't have imagined, they're doing it in a space that hasn't kept pace.

The generosity of Minnesotans is about to change that.


 

$20,854,905 of $35,000,000 raised

Our $35 million goal is ambitious, and every gift moves us closer. 

Here's where it goes

  • $28 million to reimagine every corner of the building, from structure and furnishings to the finishing details that make a space feel special.
  • $2 million to establish a maintenance endowment, protecting this investment for the generations who will walk through those doors after us.
  • $5 million to support the 4-H educators and staff who will activate this new space throughout the year, turning the renovated building into a thriving hub of discovery.

 

 

Help us reach our goal

There are many ways you can help us elevate the 4-H Building to continue to empower youth into the future:

  • Donate - Give today to support the next generation of Minnesota leaders!

  • Get involved - Learn how you can partner with us to support the campaign and spread the word.


In partnership to build a future for 4-H

Minnesota 4-H and the Minnesota State Fair have been working in partnership for decades. Now, they're working together to transform the 4-H Building to strengthen Minnesota 4-H for generations to come.

 


Minnesota 4-H is building a generation of youth to be beyond ready


Ready to learn: Exploring their interests

Ready to lead: Finding their voice

Ready to serve: Changing their communities


They're building a future. Let's build a home for it.

Learn more about the campaign

The power of 4-H

More than a program, 4-H is a journey that builds character, confidence and community.

Building a home for 4-H

Each year, nearly 5,000 Minnesota 4-H'ers earn trips to showcase their projects at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. At the heart of it all stands the 4-H Building.

Support the next generation of Minnesota leaders

As 4-H grows, the space where our youth discover their potential must grow with it.

Donate

© 2026 Regents of the University of Minnesota. All rights reserved. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. This work is supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.