More than 5 million people visit Michigan's fairs annually, and thousands of volunteers contribute to the success of these events. The Fairs, Exhibitions and Racing Division (FERD) supports and enhances Michigan's state, county and local fairs, some of which feature horse racing, through education and incentive programs.
UP State Fair - Located in Escanaba, the award-winning Upper Peninsula State Fair provides an opportunity each August
to showcase Michigan agriculture and agricultural products.
Local State Fair Support - The Fairs, Exhibitions and Racing Division supports local, county and state fairs through funding premium awards to exhibitors of livestock and community arts.
Horse Racing Support - The grants provided by this division to horse racing promote interest and participation in Michigan horse racing, and support the breeding of quality race horses in the state.
Producer Security Services Unit - This multifaceted unit administers the Grain Dealer Act and the Farm Produce Insurance Act, which provides security for producers of grain in Michigan--an important component in Michigan's economy.
Business, Technology and Resource Unit - oversees and manages the MDA's technological innovation, including maintenance of Inter and Intra-net websites, Information Technology Advisory Council, Licensing Project Planning and Development, and more.