MSU Extension Virtual Learning Showcase & Auctions

The 2026 Michigan State Fair 4-H & Youth Virtual Showcase provided a statewide opportunity for young people to celebrate their learning, talents and accomplishments. Hosted by the Michigan State Fair in partnership with Michigan State University Extension, the showcase welcomed 133 youth ages 5 to 19 representing 43 Michigan counties. Designed to be accessible statewide, the virtual showcase gives youth the opportunity to take part in the Michigan State Fair from their own communities.

Participants submitted more than 331 entries across a diverse range of project areas, highlighting the creativity, skills and dedication of Michigan youth. Project evaluations began on August 12, with each exhibit assessed against established standards and recognized with an A, B or C rating.

Through the FairEntry online platform, youth shared photos and videos of their projects in both traditional and emerging project areas. Entries included livestock showmanship, breeding and market animal classes, baking, crafts, creative writing and other still exhibits. Participants also showcased educational demonstrations and projects focused on topics such as leadership, urban agriculture, business pitches and other innovative areas, reflecting the many ways young people learn and grow through hands-on experiences. Results and placings for the 2026 Michigan State Fair 4-H & Youth Virtual Showcase can be viewed through the FairEntry website by selecting the "View Results" button.

Scholarship winners

Beyond project recognition and feedback from judges for improvement, participants age 8 to 19 were eligible to apply for post-secondary education scholarships. The amount of these scholarships from $250-$1,000 and were made possible through the generosity of the Michigan State Fair Foundation and support of the Michigan 4-H Foundation. They recognize youth who have demonstrated commitment, growth and achievement through their showcase participation. Winners represented a diverse array of projects, including poultry showmanship, gardening, baking, goat showmanship, swine showmanship, beef showmanship, dairy cattle, photography, leadership, demonstrations, veterinary science, creative arts, STEM, entrepreneurship and more! The 2026 scholarship winners range in age from 8 to 17 years-old.

Congratulations to the 2026 Michigan State Fair 4-H and Youth Virtual Showcase scholarship winners:

• Cassidy B., Shiawassee County
• Edye B ., Alger County
• Leslie C., Schoolcraft County
• Conner D., St. Joseph County
• Anna H., Clinton County
• Taylor J., Branch County
• Alexis K., Macomb County
• Myla L., Livingston County
• Kinza M., Ingham County
• Quinn P., Hillsdale County
• Caleb S., Branch County
• Morgen S, Monroe County
• Moriah S., Ingham County
• Oliver S., Kent County
• Nafisa U., Wayne County
• Ramisa U., Wayne County

Participant testimonials

In their winning scholarship essays, youth shared some common themes on perseverance, lifelong learning, leadership, service to others and confidence in pursuing their future goals.

Lessons learned

• "The main thing I've learned through doing this project is commitment and follow-through. It would have been easy not to fulfill my commitment, but I know how important it is to push myself to succeed and follow through with the goals I've set."
• "Both gardening and baking teach you how to nurture something from start to finish, whether it's a seed or a loaf of bread."
• "This experience has shown me the value of hard work, dedication and believing in myself because the effort I put in can lead to amazing opportunities."
• "I learned that creativity isn't just about having an idea. It's about sticking with it through the tough parts until it finally works."

Advice for others

• "Work hard, be cooperative, determined, positive and most of all, have fun. Accidents and mishaps will happen, but a positive attitude will help you know you did your best."
• "Never give up, always try your best, and keep trying even when you face challenges. Believe in yourself that you can achieve your dream."
• "If we want to reach our goals, we have to do observation, hard work and research. We have to keep learning and finding new ways to improve."

Future goals

• "I want to use my problem-solving skills, help people and take on challenges. Right now, I'm excited about pursuing a career in medicine."
• "I hope to make a difference by protecting biodiversity, restoring natural habitats and helping people better understand wildlife and ecology."
• "I want to create opportunities for others the same way people created opportunities for me. Mentoring youth and helping them discover their passions is one of my biggest goals."
• "The lessons I've learned in 4-H have shown me that I can chase any dream I have, even if it doesn't seem possible at first."

The 2026 Michigan State Fair 4-H & Youth Virtual Showcase continues to serve as a valuable platform for youth to share their passions, explore new interests and celebrate the knowledge and skills they have developed while inspiring others across the state.

Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. To find out how to get involved as a Michigan 4-H youth participant or an adult volunteer, contact your county MSU Extension office.