The Civic Trust
The Civic Trust® is a nonpartisan educational initiative dedicated to enhancing civic literacy, skills, and participation across schools, workplaces, and communities. Through programs like the National Civics Bee®, we partner with state and local chambers, businesses, policymakers, and community leaders to offer dynamic opportunities that aim to nurture active citizenship and inspire future leaders.
Spotlight
New research studies from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and College Board show why that matters for business and education leaders.
Launched in 2024, our two-week program offers an immersive professional exchange and residential learning opportunity for foreign judges and magistrates who are passionate about strengthening legal systems.
Our Impact in Stories
- Civics
How Businesses Will Show Up for America’s 250th BirthdayThe U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are sharing resources to help businesses and communities celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday in 2026.
By Pamela Sharma
- Civics
Introducing The Juror Education Project
By Hilary Crow - Civics
Third Time’s the Charm: Meet the 2025 National Civics Bee Champion
By Alicia Sondberg
Insights
New U.S. Chamber Foundation survey shows young people are paying attention, staying hopeful, and looking for more practical ways to engage in civic life.
News
TODAY
National Civics Bee champions Barrett and Maanha team up with TODAY’s Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones to compete in a multi-category civics showdown.
Wall Street Journal
Drawing on their experience judging the National Civics Bee, Jim Nicholson and Emma Bloomberg argue that the U.S. needs a grassroots civics renewal to strengthen the habits and skills that sustain democracy ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Partners
The Daniels Fund announced it will grant the U.S. Chamber Foundation $4.5 million to scale the National Civics Bee® – an initiative to promote greater civic knowledge among young people, their families, and communities. The three-year grant will enable the Foundation to expand the Bees to all 50 states and host a national championship by 2026, coinciding with the 250th birthday of the U.S.
Our Experts
- Rina LevyAssociate Manager, Civics
Get the latest news and resources aimed at improving understanding of and involvement in American civic life delivered straight to your inbox.
Latest Content
- :hire CEO Larry Kidd and Project Manager Rachel Strawser share their perspectives on implementing Civic Time Off.This annual competition by The Civic Trust®, an initiative of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is expanding to a record 28 states this year.Just like rules in a sport or board game, rule of law creates impartiality, predictability, and accountability. Together with the Presidential Precinct, we launched the Judicial Fellowship Program, a concerted effort to fight corruption and strengthen rule of law globally.Local and state chambers can apply now to participate in the 2025 National Civics Bee®.Elections are a cornerstone of our democracy, yet there are significant shortages of election poll workers that could prevent polling places from opening for upcoming elections in 24 states.Our comprehensive new study revealed an alarming truth ahead of America’s 250th anniversary—the nation’s civic knowledge is badly lagging. However, there’s an optimistic outlook and opportunity for business leaders to make a difference.Amidst growing polarization, workplaces emerge as rare unifying civic force.In our annual impact report, you will see how we are translating our bold new vision into action by organizing around proven capabilities in civics and democracy, disaster resilience, education, and workforce.Middle school students can apply today. Finalists will receive free access to Khanmigo, Khan Academy’s AI-powered tutor, to study civics.
