WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation today announced the middle school finalists who will represent their states in the second annual National Civics Bee Championship on Nov. 11, 2025, in Washington.
“At this critical moment for our nation, the National Civics Bee gives young people across America a powerful stage to show what leadership, problem-solving, and civic spirit really look like. Their voices remind us of the values that make our nation so exceptional—and the promise of what comes next,” said Michael Carney, president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
Launched in 2023, the National Civics Bee has grown rapidly into a nationwide movement. This year’s competition engaged more than 12,000 students from 200 communities across 40 states, bringing together parents, educators, business leaders, and public officials to elevate civics education as a national priority.
State finalists have earned their place on the national stage through rigorous local and state competitions, organized in partnership with chambers of commerce nationwide. They tackled pressing issues in their communities such as emergency preparedness, waste management, screen time, eldercare, and more, demonstrating how civic knowledge can be applied to real-world challenges.
Championship Showcases Future Leaders
On Nov. 11, the finalists will gather in Washington to compete in multiple rounds designed to test their knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Students will also visit institutions in the nation’s capital and engage with leaders who shape American policy and governance.
Last year’s inaugural championship crowned Emily Brubaker of Alaska as America’s first National Civics Bee champion, earning her the Bill Daniels National Civics Award and a $100,000 529 education savings plan.
Watch the Championship, Apply for 2026
The 2025 National Civics Bee Championship will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. EST on Nov. 11 in Washington and will be available via livestream. You can register for the event at this link.
To see the full list of National Civics Bee finalists, click here.
To view highlights from the 2024 National Civics Bee Championship, including Emily’s winning moment, click here.
Applications are now open for the 2026 National Civics Bee. To apply, click here.
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About National Civics Bee
The National Civics Bee®, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s The Civic Trust, is an annual 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 and local chambers across the country. It is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as Beth and Ravenel Curry Foundation, Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, Fisher Global Foundation, Ibis Group, The Anschutz Foundation, Wilson Garling Foundation, and other funders.
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.
