Donations fund the garden at the fair’s front gate. Photo provided by Fulton County Fair Board.

By Libby Hubbard
InkFreeNews

ROCHESTER — The 2025 Fulton County Fair is set for July 12-19, and Fulton County Fair Board President Stephen Williams is encouraging community members and businesses to consider sponsorships and donations to help support the annual event and its year-round operations.

The Fulton County Fairgrounds, owned and maintained by the Fair Board, hosts the event in partnership with the 4-H Council, which is overseen by Purdue Extension and handles all youth agriculture and project programming.

“Sponsorships help fund entertainment and facilities,” Williams said. “Platinum sponsors are featured on signage along Third Street (in Rochester), and we offer multiple tiers for businesses or individuals who want to contribute.”

Fair operations depend heavily on private support and grants. According to Williams, the fair board generates limited revenue through facility rentals. Insurance, utility costs and upkeep consume most of the fair’s income.

“We’re not a money-making organization,” Williams said. “Most of our budget goes toward maintenance. Major upgrades often require loans or donations that our board members take out.”

In recent years, grants have helped improve accessibility, including restroom renovations and resurfacing the main entrance to become more handicapped accessible and ADA compliant.

Williams noted that contributions make a visible impact on the community, as the fairgrounds are a shared resource.

For those wishing to make a lasting contribution, donations can also be directed through the Community Foundation via an agriculture and 4-H endowment fund.

“The investment income from that fund is accessible to both the fair board and the 4-H Council for projects and upgrades,” Williams said.

The fair’s move to the third week of July aims to reduce overlap with neighboring Cass and Kosciusko county fairs.

Despite budget constraints, the board continues to prioritize community-focused entertainment.

Those interested in donating or sponsoring may contact the fair board directly or inquire through the Community Foundation of Fulton County for options such as Giving Tuesday matched donations.

“It takes a lot of people to make the fair happen,” Williams said. “Sponsorships and donations are vital to keeping the experience going for future generations.”

Residents can email the Fulton County Fair Board at [email protected] for more information about donation opportunities or sponsorship tiers.