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2026 National Civics Bee® Essay Application Portal Now Open for North Dakota Middle Schoolers

Posted: Jan 14 2026

The Minot Area Chamber EDC invites middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade from public, private, and home schools in and around Minot to apply for the 2026 National Civics Bee, a nonpartisan competition created and organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Students begin by submitting a four-paragraph essay proposing ideas to improve their communities, and the top scoring essay finalists will be invited to a live quiz competition in Minot.

Finalists who advance to live quiz competitions at the regional, state, and national levels have the chance to win prizes and represent their communities. They also strengthen their civics, writing, and public speaking skills, and form friendships with other young leaders along the way.

The first-place winner of the North Dakota State Finals will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in Fall 2026. Finalists who advance to the National Championship will compete for cash prizes, national recognition, and a $100,000 529 education savings plan contribution. Thanks to the generous support of the Fisher Global Foundation, the first-place winner in each state may also secure a $5,000 donation for their school.

Educators, youth leaders, and parents are encouraged to share this opportunity with their middle school students. Educator and student resources are available to help students craft and submit their essays. To access these resources, visit https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/ncb-how-it-works/.

The application portal is open now through February 4, 2026, at 3:59 a.m. Central Standard Time. Students can apply at https://my.reviewr.com/NationalCivicsBee/site/NationalCivicsBee2026. Students without access to the internet or a computer may submit their applications by mail.

“This is our second year presenting the National Civics Bee after hosting the only bee in the state in 2025,” said Carla Dolan, Vice President Minot Area Chamber EDC. “The winner of the 2025 event went on to the state and national competitions. We are proud to offer this to area youth to encourage civics knowledge for our future employees.”

“Fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is critical to the vibrancy of democracy and civic life in America. The National Civics Bee provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future,” said Hilary Crow, Vice President of Civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation.

For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org. For interview requests or additional information, please contact tim@minotchamberedc.com.