ABOUT THE BEE

The South Carolina YMCA Youth in Government program is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a nonpartisan civics competition that encourages South Carolina middle school students 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. The regional and state winners will receive cash prizes. State finalists will be invited to Washington, DC to compete in the National Civics Bee National Championship in Fall 2026 where they will compete with other state finalists. The winner of the National Civics Bee Championship will receive a $100,000 college scholarship fund!

WHY CIVICS?

We are hosting the National Civics Bee South Carolina State Finals because 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. The National Civics Bee aligns with the mission of the YMCA Youth in Government program because it celebrates the voices of young people and believes that young people should have opportunities to contribute to their communities and talk about issues that they care about.

HOW TO ENTER

Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in South Carolina with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their application to participate in the competition. All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Time. Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.

WHY CIVICS?

We are hosting the National Civics Bee South Carolina State Finals because 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 South Carolina and celebrating our civic pride. 

HOW TO ENTER

Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in South Carolinawith an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their application to participate in the competition. All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Time. Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.

Students should review the Contest Rules below and then apply using the following link: 

 

2026 National Civics Bee Application Link >> 

 

RESOURCES/ADDITIONAL INFO:

REGIONAL COMPETITIONS 

Spring 2026

STATE FINALS

  • Columbia SC – July 2026

 

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 Mary Capers Bledsoe at marycapers.bledsoe@ymcagreenville.org 

CONTACT US 

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Mary Capers Bledsoe at marycapers.bledsoe@ymcagreenville.org