The Business Council of New York State, Inc. and U.S. Chamber Foundation Partner to
Bring the 2026 National Civics Bee® to New York State
[Albany, NY] – The Business Council of New York State, Inc. is proud to partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics Bee to New York State 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 New York State participating regional/local chambers of commerce include:
The essay application portal opened September 8, 2025, at 6:01pm Hawaii Standard Time (HST) and closes on 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/.
“We are thrilled to once again host the National Civics Bee in New York State,” said Heather Mulligan, President and CEO of The Business Council of New York State. “As a business organization, we believe strongly in the importance of inspiring the next generation of leaders to take an active role in civic life and contribute meaningfully to their communities from an early age. We hope this event will empower students to become informed, engaged citizens who are passionate about making a positive difference.”
“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we have a powerful opportunity – and responsibility – to reignite civic learning across the country. Our hope is that the National Civics Bee inspires more schools to prioritize civics education, equipping young people with a deeper understanding of how our government and democracy work – and the essential role they play in strengthening their communities and our nation,” 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 [email protected].
The Business Council of New York State, Inc., is the leading business organization in New York State, representing the interests of large and small firms throughout the state. We serve as an advocate for
employers in the state’s political and policy-making arenas, working for a healthier business climate, economic growth, and jobs.
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