Learn to make the most of your market animal project
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EmailJoin the “Make the Most of Your Market Animal Project” webinar series from MSU Extension to strengthen your marketing, financial and communication skills for auction success — and lifelong confidence.
Are you, or someone you know, a young livestock enthusiast looking to excel in market auctions? The "Make the Most of Your Market Animal Project" webinar series offered through Michigan State University Extension is here to guide you! This free, interactive series, using activities from the curriculum, 4-H Youth Business Guide to Success will be offered every Tuesday from April 21 to May 19, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. EST. Participants will gain essential youth entrepreneurship skills in goal setting, communication, marketing, record-keeping and understanding break-even points to maximize their success in livestock auctions. To attend one or all sessions, register with MSU Extension.
Why attend?
Attendees of the webinar series will:
- Gain essential skills for livestock/market animal auctions.
- Improve marketing and communication techniques.
- Learn effective record-keeping and financial planning.
- Develop confidence in engaging with buyers.
- Explore innovative marketing strategies.
Webinar schedule and topics
The “Make the Most of Your Market Animal Project” webinar series will feature the following subjects:
- April 21 - Goal-Getters
Setting clear and achievable goals is the first step to success. In this session, participants will learn how to set SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound) goals that will help them track progress, stay motivated and successfully prepare their animals for county fairs and market auctions. - April 28 - Talk the Talk
Selling livestock effectively requires strong communication skills. This session will teach participants how to connect with buyers, convey the value of their animals, and confidently present their projects. Attendees will gain practical tips for engaging new audiences as potential buyers. - May 5 - Marketing Mastery
Effective marketing can make all the difference when selling livestock. This interactive session covers the five Ps of marketing—product, price, place, promotion and people. Youth will learn how to identify their target market, develop a marketing plan and use innovative strategies to boost their sales price and build community connections. - May 12 - Records to Riches
Keeping track of expenses and earnings is crucial in any business, including livestock projects. Participants will learn record-keeping strategies and how to calculate break-even points. By mastering these skills, they will be better equipped to make informed financial decisions and ensure their projects are both profitable and rewarding. - May 19 - From the Pitch to the Payment
Recruiting buyers is a crucial aspect of livestock sales. This session will focus on communication and outreach techniques to confidently engage potential buyers, highlight project achievements, and leave a lasting impression. Participants will also explore the power of social media in promoting their projects and reaching a broader audience.
Why these skills matter for youth
Market animal projects are about far more than show day. They provide hands-on experience in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, communication and personal responsibility. Youth learn how to set goals, manage budgets, analyze costs, market a product and speak confidently with adults and business leaders. These are lifelong skills that prepare young people for college, careers and running their own businesses. By understanding break-even points and marketing strategies, youth move from simply raising an animal to managing a real-world business project. They gain confidence, resilience and the ability to adapt — qualities that serve them well in any future path.
Youth ages 8-19 should not miss this opportunity to elevate their market animal project, strengthen their business skills, and set themselves up for success at livestock auctions and beyond.
