HARRISBURG, PA – Middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade from public, private, charter, and home schools across Pennsylvania are invited to apply for the 2026 National Civics Bee, a nonpartisan competition created and organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Students begin by submitting a four-paragraph essay proposing ideas to improve their communities, and the top scoring essay finalists will be invited to a live quiz competition in their state.
Finalists who advance to live quiz competitions at the regional, state, and national levels have the chance to win prizes and represent their communities. They also strengthen their civics, writing, and public speaking skills, and form friendships with other young leaders along the way.
The first-place winner of the Pennsylvania State Finals will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in Fall 2026. Finalists who advance to the National Championship will compete for cash prizes, national recognition, and a $100,000 contribution to a 529 education savings plan. Thanks to the generous support of the Fisher Global Foundation, the first-place winner in each state may also secure a $5,000 donation for their school.
Educators, youth leaders, and parents are encouraged to share this opportunity with their middle school students. Educator and student resources are available to help students craft and submit their essays. To access these resources, visit https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/ncb-how-it-works/.
The application portal is open now through February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. Students can apply at https://my.reviewr.com/NationalCivicsBee/site/NationalCivicsBee2026. Students without access to the internet or a computer may submit their applications by mail.
“Civic engagement starts long before the voting booth,” said Ryan C. Unger, President & CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC. “When students understand the role they play in civic life, they become catalysts for positive change. The National Civics Bee® inspires young people to think critically, get involved, and help shape the future of their communities.”
“Fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is critical to the vibrancy of democracy and civic life in America. The National Civics Bee provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation.
For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org. For interview requests or additional information, please contact Kevin DiGuiseppe here.
About the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC
For 140 years, the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC has served as the region’s catalyst for economic prosperity. The organization combines business, community, and economic development services to enhance the region’s vitality and livability. The Chamber is a five-star accredited chamber through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce—a distinction held by fewer than 1 percent of chambers nationwide. CREDC is the Certified Economic Development Organization for Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties.
About U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation harnesses the power of business to create solutions for the good of America and the world. We anticipate, develop, and deploy solutions to challenges facing communities—today and tomorrow.
About the National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is an annual nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle school students, their families, and communities. The National Civics Bee helps elevate civics as a national priority through a network of state, regional, and local organizations across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, and other funders.
