Designers Wanted for Farm Fair Fame

By Andi Anderson

The Ohio agriculture industry is looking for innovative exhibit designers to help create a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors to the new Ohio Agriculture Center at the Ohio State Fair.

This exciting opportunity invites creative firms to develop an interactive exhibit that showcases the theme “Ohio Agriculture: Bigger than Life” in an 85,000 square foot space inside a brand-new multi-purpose building.

Construction of the Ohio Agriculture Center will be complete in 2025, and the exhibit will debut at the 2026 Ohio State Fair, scheduled for July 29 to August 9, 2026. The exhibit aims to celebrate Ohio’s farming heritage and innovation, providing families with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of the state’s agricultural impact.

The project timeline is well defined. Key dates include:

• Issue Date: September 29, 2025
• Bidder’s Meeting: October 8, 2025, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Ohio Expo Center and State Fairgrounds.
• Question Deadline: October 13, 2025, at 5 p.m.
• Proposals Due: October 31, 2025
• Firm Interviews: November 6–11, 2025
• Firm Selection: November 14, 2025
• Kickoff Meeting: December 1, 2025

Designers whose proposals are accepted will deliver renderings by January 31, 2026, complete exhibit pieces by March 31, 2026, and finish display signage by May 31, 2026.

Exhibit set-up will take place from July 15 to 26, 2026, followed by staff training and a VIP preview on July 27–28, 2026. The exhibit will run during the entire fair and be dismantled from August 10 to 14, 2026.

Interested bidders are encouraged to attend the October 8 meeting to view the construction site and ask questions. Parking is available through Gate 7 near the Natural Resources Park. Close-toed shoes are required and safety gear will be provided.

Questions must be submitted by email to kari@shift-ology.com with the subject line “Bidder Question” before the October 13 deadline. Answers will be posted by October 17.

This project offers a unique chance to design an engaging agricultural destination that celebrates Ohio’s farming legacy and modern innovation, creating an unforgettable attraction for thousands of visitors at the 2026 Ohio State Fair.

Photo Credit: ohio-state-fair