National Civics Bee

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Calling all middle school students!

The Colorado Chamber Foundation invites students across the state to showcase their civic knowledge and passion for community in the annual National Civics Bee® competition.

About the Bee
The Colorado Chamber Foundation is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a nonpartisan civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th, 7th and 8th graders will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. Finalists will be invited to Washington, DC to compete in the National Civics Bee National Championship in Fall 2026.

Why Civics?

We are hosting the National Civics Bee Colorado State Finals because we believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge throughout Colorado and celebrating our civic pride.

Who Can Enter?

Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in Colorado with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their application to participate in the competition. This competition is open to students in public, private, charter, or home schools. Essay applications open in the fall and close in the winter, The top 20 essayists will be invited to compete at their nearest regional event (determined by zip code), where the top three winners will be invited to compete at the State Finals.

Regional Partners

Thank you to all of our regional partners in Colorado, who bring this program to life in their respective communities.

  • Alamosa County Chamber Foundation Inc. | Regional Bee on March 25, 2026

    • Winners of the Alamosa-area National Civics Bee include:

      • First place: Ezekial P., Sanford School District, Essay topic: Public Knowledge

      • Second place: Avery D., Sanford School District, Essay topic: Civic Responsibility

      • Third place: Areeya G., Sierra Grande School District, Essay topic: Sheltering People

  • Arvada Chamber of Commerce | Regional Bee on April 24, 2026
  • Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce | Regional Bee on April 26, 2026
  • Carbondale Chamber of Commerce & Youthentity | Regional Bee on April 30, 2026
  • Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce | Regional Bee on April 8, 2026
  • Eastern Plains Chamber of Commerce | Regional Bee on March 28, 2026
    • Winners of the Eastern Plains-area National Civics Bee® include:
      • First place: Sydney Z., Lewis-Palmer Middle School, Essay topic: Plastics in Cafeterias
      • Second place: Josephine C., The Classical Academy: College Pathways, Essay topic: Inequality throughout the World
      • Third place: Hannah S., Merit Academy, Essay topic: Community Welfare
  • Fort Morgan – Kids at Their Best | Regional Bee on April 18, 2026
  • Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce| Regional Bee on May 2, 2026
  • Lamar Community College | Regional Bee on March 29, 2026
    • Winners of the Lamar-area National Civics Bee® include:
      • First place: Cayson C., Campo Undivided HS, Essay topic: Economic Development
      • Second place: Finnley R., Lamar Middle School, Essay topic: Student Garden
      • Third place: Waylon R., Campo Undivided HS, Essay topic: Economic Support

National Civics Bee Colorado State Finals

The top three students from each regional competition will advance to the Colorado State Finals, hosted by the Colorado Chamber Foundation. Finalists will compete live for cash prizes and the chance to represent Colorado at the National Finals in Washington, D.C.

Friday, July 24, 2026

The Cable Center, University of Denver

Learn more and register here. Registration is complimentary but required to attend.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Are you interested in showcasing your company’s commitment to developing​ active and engaged citizens? For information about available corporate sponsorships, please contact Lauren Stellman or Rachel Beck.

How to Enter – Applications for the 2026 National Civics Bee are closed. 

Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in Colorado with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their application to participate in the competition. All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.

Students should review the Contest Rules below and then apply using the following link: 2026 National Civics Bee Application Link  

Resources/Additional Info:

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Lauren Stellman.