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 stem station and plantarium science technology engineering math education at the lincoln county fairgrounds in north platte nebraska

Lincoln County STEM Station & Planetarium Project

The Project

After two highly successful years of science activities at the Lincoln County Fair in 2024 and 2025, the Lincoln County Agricultural Society is excited to announce a permanent home for STEM education at the fairgrounds: The STEM Station.

The STEM Station will serve as a year-round hub for hands-on learning and exploration in science, technology, engineering, and math. Our vision is to grow into a space that regularly hosts engaging STEM events, inspiring students and families across Lincoln County for generations to come.

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 station and plantarium science technology engineering math education at the lincoln county fairgrounds in north platte nebraska

Goal

The vision for the STEM Station is to fully renovate and equip the building—inside and out—so it can serve as a comfortable, year-round learning hub for students and families. With help from the community, the space will be transformed into an interactive STEM center featuring classrooms, workrooms, hands-on learning areas, and even a planetarium and telescope balcony.

lincoln county fairgrounds open class 4h building  station and plantarium science technology engineering math education at the lincoln county fairgrounds in north platte nebraska

Cost

The estimated cost for materials and supplies is $100,000–$200,000. Labor will be generously donated by community members, helping stretch every dollar further. Funding will come from a mix of grants, giving day campaigns, and direct support from individuals and businesses. Already, the project has received in-kind contributions such as furniture, educational equipment, computers, and even a commitment to purchase and install HVAC components.

 station and plantarium science technology engineering math education at the lincoln county fairgrounds in north platte nebraska

Impact

This project isn’t just about renovating a building—it’s about investing in the future of Lincoln County. The STEM Station will provide year-round opportunities for students and families to explore science, technology, engineering, and math in engaging, hands-on ways. By supporting this effort, the community helps inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.

The Building

The STEM Station will be located in the former 4-H/Open Class exhibition building, just east of the new 4-H building. The structure is a 60 ft. x 90 ft. steel post-frame building with corrugated steel walls and roofing. Inside, it currently has bare concrete floors, limited electrical service, an attic fan, two overhead garage doors, three entrance doors, and several large windows.

At present, the building lacks many modern amenities such as heating, cooling, insulation, interior finishes, plumbing, and internet access. The exterior shows signs of age, and the windows and doors are in need of repair. While the space is functional, it presents challenges—hot in the summer, cold in the winter, and in need of upgrades to better serve as a year-round STEM learning center.

Planned Renovations

External Facade & Paint
Ceilings
1 Storeroom
Tables & Chairs
Covered Patios
Insulation
2 Workrooms
Lab Sinks
Windows & Doors
Interior Walls & Paint
Rolling Walls
Counters & Cabinets
Flooring
4 Bathroom Renovation
Telescope Deck
Planetarium
Image by Aperture Vintage

How You Can Help

Your support helps bring the STEM Building project at the Lincoln County Fair to life. Every gift—big or small—makes a lasting impact on our community and the next generation of innovators. There are several convenient ways to give:

STEM Station Partnership Levels

1

Galactic Partner
$10,000 + Sponsorship

• 4x6 Banner Inside & Out (10 years)

• Sponsor Wall (Forever)

2

Stellar Partner
$5,000 + Sponsorship

• 3x5 Banner Inside (5 years)

• Sponsor Wall (Forever)

3

Planetary Partner
$1,000 + Sponsorship

• 2x3 Banner Inside (1 year)

• Sponsor Wall (Forever)

4

Additional Monetary Partners & Volunteers
$1,000 < Sponsorship

• Sponsor Wall (Forever)

Become a Sponsor

Support the STEM Station Project at the Lincoln County Fair and help inspire the next generation of innovators! Both monetary sponsors and volunteers will be proudly recognized for their contribution to bringing hands-on science and creativity to our fairgoers. Contact Us to learn more.

Other Ways to Support

Donate Online
Make a secure one-time gift, or set up automatic monthly or yearly contributions to provide ongoing support.
Mid-NE Community Foundation
Direct your donation through the Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation to ensure your gift is managed with care and dedicated to the STEM Building project.
Direct Donations
Donations may be made directly to the Lincoln County Ag Society by cash or check. Please include a memo or note designating your gift for the STEM Building Project to ensure it is applied correctly.
In-kind Support
Contributions of construction materials, supplies, tools, or volunteer time are just as valuable as financial gifts. Your skills and resources can directly help us complete the project.
Sponsor
A great opportunity for corporate and business involvement, helping bring hands-on science and creativity to the Fair. Both monetary sponsors and volunteers are recognized for their support.
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Donate Online

Give securely with a one-time donation, or choose automatic monthly or yearly contributions to provide lasting support.

Donate

Make a secure one-time donation, or set up recurring monthly or yearly contributions.

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For questions, donations or sponsorship inquiry, please contact:

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