The YMCA of the Triangle and U.S. Chamber Foundation Partner to Bring the 2026 National Civics Bee® to the Northwestern Region of North Carolina
The YMCA of the Triangle is proud to partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics Bee to Raleigh/Durham and surrounding areas for the 2025-2026 program year.
This annual initiative–now expanding to all 50 states in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026–invites middle school students to showcase their civics knowledge, engage in their communities, and build trust in others and institutions through a nonpartisan, multi-round competition.
The National Civics Bee begins with a written essay and culminates in live events at the regional, state, and national levels. Finalists who advance to the National Championship in Washington, D.C., will compete for cash prizes, national recognition, and a $100,000 529 education savings plan contribution.
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.
The essay application portal will remain open until February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time (HST). All students in grades 6-8 are encouraged to apply.
For more information, visit https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/ncb-how-it-works/ or email Brandi Simmons: brandi.simmons@ymcatriangle.org