Youth who exhibited beef cattle, sheep, meat goats or swine in the 2019 State Fair of Virginia 4-H and FFA youth livestock program are eligible to apply for 12 scholarships offered by the State Fair. Additionally, two other scholarship opportunities — worth a total of $3,500 — are open to any youth who exhibited during the 2019 fair.

Details and applications are available in the “Education” section of the fair’s website at StateFairVa.org. Applications must be completed electronically and must be received by 5 p.m. on Jan. 17.

Funds allocated for the scholarships represent a portion of the proceeds from the annual Black Tie & Boots Scholarship Gala, which was held Sept. 26, and the fifth annual Youth Livestock Sale of Champions auction, which was held Oct. 5.

The 12 scholarships for livestock exhibitors, totaling $19,640, will be offered in three age groups: Juniors (9-12), Intermediate (13-15) and Seniors (16 and older). Groups are based on exhibitors’ ages as of Sept. 30.

Since 2013 the State Fair has awarded 1,469 scholarships and has awarded over $500,000 to support youth education. The fair offers youth more than $80,000 each year in scholarship funds through 4-H, FFA and vocational competitions and specific equine, fine arts and horticulture competitions.

Contact Pam Wiley, director of communications, at (804) 290-1128.