WE'RE HEADING TO d.C!
Thank you to the educators, parents, and students who encouraged and participated in the local essay portion of the National Civics Bee competition.
This year, there were over 500 submissions to our local competition!
The top 20 students competed in a live local event on April 30th at Eastern Michigan University. The top 3 finalists competed in Lansing, Michigan, on July 9th, and one, Ashley T., was the top finalist in the state, which earned her a trip to the national competition on November 11th. The national competition will take place in Washington, D.C.
Join us virtually for the live National Championship on November 11, 2025!
Get involved in the regional competition! View the information below to engage at every level.
Students:
Participate in the 2026 National Civics Bee |
CLICK HERE
Competition Rules:
VIEW THE COMPETITION RULES HERE
Educators:
EDUCATOR TOOLKIT
Business and Community Partners: Sponsor, or be an Essay Judge
ABOUT THE BEE
WHY CIVICS?
The Canton Chamber of Commerce is participating in the National Civics Bee for the third consecutive year because we believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce. We also believe that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge in Michigan and celebrating our civic pride. The Canton Chamber of Commerce, along with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a local civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th, 7th, and 8th graders across Michigan will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. The top finalist from each participating state will once again be invited to Washington, DC, to compete in the Third Annual National Civics Bee® National Championship in the fall of 2026.
A college education fund of $100,000 will be awarded to the top finalist, with cash awards of $25,000 and $15,000 to second and third place winners.
How to Enter
Any 6th, 7th, or 8th-grade student residing in the United States with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their application to participate
in their state. All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Time or 5:59 pm Eastern Time. Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.
Students should review the contest rules and then apply at:
CLICK HERE.
LIVE LOCAL EVENT INFO
Who: Contestants, Parents, Supporters
When: April 22, 2026
Where: Eastern Michigan University
Student Center Auditorium
Pre-Bee Networking event- Join other area business professionals for a time to network before the students take the stage. Light refreshments are provided. Registration is requested. $10 per person. Stay to see THE BEE!
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Are you interested in showcasing your company's commitment to developing active and engaged citizens? Are you a citizen who wants to support the education of young citizens? Sponsorships to support this worthy event are available from $100 to $5000.
For information about available personal or corporate sponsorships, please contact Pamela Batcho via phone (734) 453-4040 or email pbatcho@cantonchamber.com
See the sponsorship form below!
CONTACT US
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Pamela Batcho via phone (734) 453-4040 9am-5pm EST Monday-Friday or email pbatcho@cantonchamber.com