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4-H Building campaign updates

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Keep revisiting this page for exciting updates about the campaign, including:

  • New building features 
  • Design decisions
  • Major gifts and donor recognition
  • Construction timeline updates
  • Community engagement events
  • News stories

Fall 2026: Construction has begun 

The fair ended, the doors closed and construction crews went to work inside the building in September. Now, in November, crews are wrapping up the plumbing rough-in, the elevator pits have been dug and new walls are going up on the third floor. 

A construction worker points toward the ceiling beside a scissor lift in an unfinished room with metal wall framing.
An indoor renovation site with dirt piles, construction equipment, a worker, and colorful wall murals.

Summer 2026: The 4-H Building is getting a fresh look

Crews are hard at work giving the 4-H Building a much-needed refresh, with new windows going in and a fresh coat of paint brightening the exterior. It's the first sign of the transformation underway. 

Stop by during the Minnesota State Fair to see the progress for yourself!

The 4-H Building at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds with boarded windows and peeling paint.
Interior of a large room with metal bunkbeds, large windows, scaffolding, and visible signs of renovation.

Need help visualizing the future? Check out our vision for the 4-H Building.

Donor updates

Support for the 4-H Building renovation is growing

Individuals and organizations are stepping forward to help bring this exciting vision to life. 

We recognize with gratitude the donors who have already made their commitments to the 4-H Building campaign.

Campaign news

A young boy and an older woman examine a jar of jam together at a table, engaged in a learning moment.

A taste for potential

Long-time 4-H foods and nutrition judge Mary Bartz is ready for the 4-H Building to match the potential of the youth exhibiting inside, which is why she supports its renovation.

A woman in a safety vest and hard hat stands in front of the fenced off 4-H Building entrance.

From 4-H youth member to four-star engineer

Amanda Kieffer went from exhibiting 4-H projects in the 4-H Building to overseeing its renovation as a senior engineer.

A girl holding a white chicken smiles in front of a blue backdrop with a "Dakota County Fair" banner above her.

A place to belong

Rebecca Susag supports the 4-H Building renovation to ensure the spirit of belonging in 4-H extends within its historic building, creating a welcoming space for all.

Aaron and Leah Janz with their kids under the "Minnesota 4-H Welcomes You" sign above the 4-H Building entrance at the state fair.

Meet me in the 4-H Building

The 4-H Building holds cherished memories for Aaron and Leah Janz, the beginning of their love story.

Architectural drawing of the updated 4-H Building's west entrance.

Extension, State Fair announce $35 million campaign for 4-H Building

Minnesota State Fair and 4-H partner to renovate 85-year-old building and expand programming statewide.

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© 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.

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