Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation Recognized as Top Grant Recipient by Nebraska Tourism

GRAND ISLAND, NE -  The Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation extends great gratitude to Nebraska Tourism for naming them one of the top five recipients for the Community Impact and Visit Nebraska Marketing Grant programs. Applications were competitive with 88 applicants requesting a total of $2,075,475.57. The 1868 Foundation was awarded $24,500 of the $749,007.32 total grant awards to support the promotion of the 2025 Nebraska State Fair and Aksarben Stock Show in Grand Island.

The Nebraska Tourism grant program aims to enhance the visibility of events and destinations across the state, fostering economic growth and boosting tourism. The funding will be used to implement promotional campaigns aimed at attracting visitors from neighboring states and boost tourism-driven economic impact.

"This grant will be a catalyst for the Nebraska State Fair and Aksarben Stock Show to venture outside our typical advertising borders,” said Jaime Parr, Executive Director of the Nebraska State Fair. “Specifically, this grant allows us to attract new visitors and exhibitors for these events. More visitors traveling into the state also carries an economic impact for the Central Nebraska area, creating a win-win for Nebraska.”

The foundation is dedicated to supporting the growth of the Nebraska State Fair. “Being the recipient of these grant dollars from Visit Nebraska will help the fair shine a spotlight on all the fun, food, and festivities that make the Nebraska State Fair a must-visit event,” said Lindsey Koepke, Executive Director of the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation. “Grant funding opportunities like this make it possible for the 1868 Foundation to succeed in its mission of providing funding assistance to ensure a successful state fair for generations to come.”rations.