The Illinois Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and local chambers of commerce across Illinois to host a first-of-its-kind statewide civics competition. The 2025-2026 National Civics Bee encourages middle school students in grades 6-8 to engage in civics and contribute to their communities.
The competition, modeled on traditional spelling and geography bees, gives students the chance to win recognition and earn cash prizes by sharing ideas for improving their communities and showing their enthusiasm for civics. The winner of the National Civics Bee Illinois State Finals will be invited to Washington, D.C. to compete in the inaugural National Civics Bee national championship in Fall 2026.