Farm Bureau Family of Companies teams with MSU to enhance the Farm Bureau Pavilion, bolstering Michigan’s agriculture education and economy.
Farm Bureau Partners with MSU on Pavilion Upgrades
The Michigan Farm Bureau Family of Companies (MFB) and Michigan State University (MSU) have announced a groundbreaking partnership to rename and modernize the MSU Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education. Renamed the Farm Bureau Pavilion at Michigan State University, the facility is poised to undergo significant expansion and upgrades through this first-of-its-kind branding agreement.
Under the partnership, MFB will invest in the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) priority fund, supporting improvements and construction costs. This initiative is part of Farm Bureau’s broader commitment to Michigan agriculture, a legacy deeply tied to MSU, which was founded as the nation’s first land-grant university.
“This partnership represents Farm Bureau’s continued investment in the future of Michigan’s agricultural industry,” said Carl Bednarski, MFB President. “MSU’s research and technology have been instrumental in supporting Michigan’s farmers and strengthening the state’s rural economy.”
A Legacy of Collaboration and Support
MFB’s relationship with MSU stretches back to its founding on the campus of Michigan Agricultural College in 1919, later renamed Michigan State University. Over the decades, the organization has supported key agricultural projects, including the $67 million MSU Livestock Initiative in 1989, which led to the construction of the original livestock pavilion in 1996.
The new agreement builds on this legacy, focusing on the pavilion’s modernization to better serve the agricultural community. Planned enhancements include the addition of an indoor arena and expanded exhibition spaces, enabling the facility to host concurrent events.
Matt Daum, interim dean of CANR, noted the facility’s economic impact: “The pavilion already draws over 92,000 visitors annually and contributes $5 million to the local economy. Once complete, the expanded pavilion is expected to generate $7.2 million annually.”
The pavilion hosts over 100 livestock and commercial shows each year, showcasing Michigan’s agricultural strength and providing vital opportunities for education and outreach. It also supports MSU’s ongoing mission of preparing agricultural leaders and solving challenges faced by Michigan farmers.
Strengthening Michigan Agriculture and Community
The partnership exemplifies the alignment between MFB and MSU’s shared goals: advancing Michigan agriculture through education, innovation, and outreach. For generations, MSU’s programs, including MSU AgBioResearch and MSU Extension, have worked closely with MFB to address the needs of farmers and support agricultural development.
“This collaboration not only enhances a vital educational hub but also symbolizes Farm Bureau’s deep connection to MSU and its land-grant mission,” said Daum.
The expanded pavilion will continue to provide hands-on learning for students, serve as a showcase for agricultural innovation, and strengthen ties between urban and rural communities through its high-profile events.
Economic and Educational Impacts
Beyond its educational mission, the pavilion serves as an economic engine for the region. Events hosted at the pavilion draw participants and visitors from across Michigan and beyond, fostering local economic growth while promoting the state’s agricultural heritage.
The Farm Bureau Pavilion is expected to stand as a testament to the importance of strategic investments in agriculture, ensuring Michigan remains a leader in agricultural education and innovation for decades to come.
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