Historic Move: North Dakota FFA Convention Relocates for First Time in Nearly a Century

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Big changes are coming for North Dakota FFA! For the first time in nearly 100 years, the North Dakota FFA State Convention is moving to a new venue to accommodate our growing membership. Starting in 2025, the convention will be held at the Sanford Health Athletic Complex (SHAC) at North Dakota State University (NDSU), marking an exciting new chapter for one of the state’s largest student organizations.

Exterior view of the Sanford Health Athletic Complex (SHAC) at North Dakota State University, a modern sports and event facility.
The new home of the North Dakota FFA State Convention—Sanford Health Athletic Complex (SHAC) at NDSU. This state-of-the-art facility will provide expanded space, seating, and opportunities for FFA members, supporters, and industry partners.

Why the Move?

For decades, the convention has been held on the NDSU campus. However, with attendance steadily rising, Benson Bunker Fieldhouse has struggled to accommodate the increasing number of members, advisors, and guests. At the 2024 convention, over 1,800 attendees packed into the Fieldhouse, with many standing due to limited seating. The move to SHAC will provide a larger, more modern venue with expanded facilities, ensuring every FFA member has the space and resources they need to thrive.

“This transition is about more than just space—it’s about opportunity,” said Laiken DeMorrett, Executive Director of the North Dakota FFA Foundation. “Our members deserve a convention that matches their ambition, and this move ensures they will have the resources and experience to grow as leaders in agriculture and beyond.”

Black and white photo of the 1958 North Dakota FFA State Convention at Festival Hall on NDSU’s campus, showing hundreds of FFA members in attendance.
A look back at the 1958 North Dakota FFA State Convention, held at Festival Hall on the NDSU campus. For nearly a century, this historic venue hosted generations of FFA members.
Modern-day photo of the 2024 North Dakota FFA State Convention at Bentson Bunker Fieldhouse, showing a packed house with FFA members in their iconic blue jackets.
A packed house at the 2024 North Dakota FFA State Convention at Bentson Bunker Fieldhouse, the event’s longtime home. With more than 1,800 members and guests in attendance, the convention has officially outgrown the space, leading to its move to a larger venue in 2025.

What This Means for FFA Members

The move to SHAC isn’t just about accommodating a larger crowd—it’s about enhancing the overall experience. The new venue will allow for:

  • More seating and better visibility during sessions and competitions.
  • Improved facilities for workshops, contests, and networking events.
  • A more dynamic and engaging atmosphere for members, advisors, and supporters.

Opportunities for Sponsors and Industry Partners

With a larger venue comes bigger opportunities for businesses and organizations looking to support the future of agriculture. The North Dakota FFA Foundation is actively seeking sponsors and industry partners to help make this expanded event a success. Sponsorship packages offer branding opportunities, premium booth placements, and visibility in front of thousands of engaged students, educators, and industry leaders.

Sponsorship Opportunities:

  • Presenting Sponsor ($25,000) – Exclusive naming rights, co-branded logos, and a 60-second commercial aired at each session.
  • Session Sponsor ($10,000) – Limited to one per session, ensuring exclusivity and high visibility, plus a 30-second commercial during main sessions.
  • Suite Sponsor ($7,500) – Branded hospitality suite and logo placements.
  • Celebration Banquet Sponsor ($1,500) – Branding at the banquet honoring State and American Degree recipients, attended by parents, members, sponsors, and advisors.

To inquire about a sponsorship contact Laiken DeMorrett at [email protected]. With 9,000+ engaged social media followers, 8,700 direct mail recipients, and 1,800 in-person convention attendees, sponsors will gain unparalleled exposure while investing in the next generation of North Dakota’s workforce.

The Sanford Health Athletic Complex (SHAC) interior, featuring stadium seating and a large central floor space, will soon host the North Dakota FFA State Convention.
A glimpse inside the SHAC, where thousands of North Dakota FFA members will gather in 2025 for an elevated convention experience. With increased seating and enhanced technology, the move sets the stage for the future of FFA in North Dakota. rge central floor space, soon to host the North Dakota FFA State Convention.

Mark Your Calendar

North Dakota FFA State Convention: June 2–5, 2025
Location: Sanford Health Athletic Complex, NDSU, Fargo, N.D.

This is a historic moment for North Dakota FFA, and we can’t wait to celebrate this next step with you. Stay tuned for more details as we prepare for an even bigger and better convention experience.