About the Bee

The YMCA Center for Youth Voice is proud to host the National Civics Bee in Minnesota in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The National Civics Bee is a nonpartisan civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th, 7th and 8th graders will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. 

We believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge throughout Minnesota and celebrating our civic pride. 

How to Enter

Every 6th, 7th, and 8th grade student in Minnesota is encouraged to apply. The application for the 2027 National Civics Bee will open in the fall. Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application materials, entry deadlines, and resources.

Regional Competitions

A national panel of judges select finalists to advance to regional competitions to compete for trophies, prizes, and recognition. Regional competitions are held in the spring. The regional competitions consist of:

  • Two multiple-choice civics quiz rounds
  • One Q&A session with a panel of judges about their essays
  • Awards ceremony with cash prizes ($500 for 1st place, $250 for 2nd place, $125 for 3rd place)

Regional Competition Locations:

  • Brainerd Lakes Chamber of Commerce
  • Hermantown Area Chamber of Commerce
  • MetroNorth Chamber of Commerce
  • Monticello Chamber of Commerce & Industry
  • St. Paul Area Chamber

Minnesota State Final

The top 3 winners from each regional competition advance to the State Final to compete for:

  • 1st Place: $1,000
  • 2nd Place: $500
  • 3rd Place: $250 

Minnesota State Final Location:

National Civics Bee

Minnesota's state champion receives a fully-funded rip to Washington, D.C. during the fall to represent Minnesota and compete on the national stage for one of three top prizes:

  • 1st Place: $100,000 contribution to an education savings plan
  • 2nd Place: $25,000
  • 3rd Place: $15,000

National Civics Bee Location:

  • Washington D.C.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Are you interested in showcasing your company's commitment to developing active and engaged citizens? For information about available corporate sponsorships, please contact amy.anderson@ymcamn.org.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact YouthVoice@ymcanorth.org.