The PA Chamber Foundation, a 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry (PA Chamber) whose mission is to accelerate the research and education priorities of the statewide business community, today announced that the application period is now open for middle school students to begin submitting essays for the 2026 National Civics Bee® Pennsylvania State Finals. Additionally, Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis and PA Chamber Foundation President Luke Bernstein will again serve as competition co-chairs.
“The National Civics Bee is an incredibly rewarding initiative with the power to transform students into community leaders who positively impact their peers and the world around them,” said PA Chamber Foundation President Luke Bernstein. “We’re thrilled to open the application period for the 2026 Civics Bee and continue educating young Pennsylvanians about the importance of our nation’s democratic principles. With America 250 on the horizon, there’s never been a more meaningful time to inspire the next generation to become active, engaged members of their communities. We’re especially grateful to Lt. Governor Austin Davis for his leadership and support as co-chair of this initiative, helping us elevate civic engagement across the Commonwealth.”
The National Civics Bee® is a nonpartisan competition led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation that encourages young Americans to engage in civics, contribute to their communities, and highlight their passion for civics education to their peers. The PA Chamber Foundation has coordinated with the U.S. Chamber Foundation and local chambers across Pennsylvania to host the National Civics Bee® Pennsylvania State Finals since 2023, where participating 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students have flexed their civics knowledge to win recognition and cash prizes. In 2025, first-place winner Millicent Godoy from Hummelstown, PA, won $1,000 and the opportunity to represent Pennsylvania in the National Civics Bee® in Washington, D.C., which will be held November 11, 2025.
“As someone who got interested in public service when I was still in high school, I saw firsthand how young people can make a positive impact in their communities,” Lt. Governor Davis said. “I want to encourage young Pennsylvanians to learn about their government and get involved – because even if they can’t vote yet, their voices matter. I’m incredibly excited to be a part of the 2026 National Civics Bee® Pennsylvania State Finals for my second year in a row.”
The portal for the 2026 Civics Bee essay submission is open for all 6th, 7th and 8th grade students in the Commonwealth to apply. All students must apply by February 3, 2026. Participation is free. Local Civics Bee finalists will advance to the 2026 National Civics Bee® Pennsylvania State Finals next year at a date and location that will be announced soon.
Students who are ready to enter the competition can get started here.
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The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state’s largest broad-based business association, with its statewide membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of BusinessTM.