Skip to content

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 28, 2026


Roanoke, Virginia – The Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation is proud to partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics Bee to Roanoke, Virginia for the 2026-2027 program year. This annual initiative invites middle school students to showcase their civic knowledge, engage in their communities, and build trust in others and institutions through a nonpartisan, multi-round competition.


The National Civics Bee begins with a written essay and culminates in live events at the regional, state, and national levels. Finalists who advance to the National Championship in Washington, D.C., will compete for cash prizes, national recognition, and a $100,000 529 education savings plan contribution.
The essay application portal opens on September 7, 2026, and closes on February 2, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time (HST). All students in grades 6-8 are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/ncb-how-it-works/.


“The National Civics Bee is about so much more than a competition. It’s about encouraging the next generation to understand the importance of civic engagement, think critically about the issues facing their communities, and recognize that their voices matter. At the Roanoke Regional Chamber, we believe strong communities begin with informed and engaged citizens. By investing in our young people today, we are helping develop the leaders, problem-solvers, and changemakers who will shape the future of Virginia’s Blue Ridge.” – Kayla Masters, Vice President of Marketing & Programs, Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce.


For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org. For interview requests or additional information, please contact Charlotte Woodcock, Director of Engagement, at cwoodcock@roanokechamber.org.


About Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The Roanoke Regional Chamber Foundation is dedicated to strengthening the future of
Virginia’s Blue Ridge through leadership development, education, workforce initiatives, and civic
engagement. As the charitable arm of the Roanoke Regional Chamber, the Foundation supports
programs that empower individuals, develop future leaders, and create opportunities for
businesses and communities to thrive. Through strategic partnerships and investments in
initiatives that address the region’s evolving needs, the Foundation is helping build a stronger,
more connected, and prosperous region for generations to come.


About U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation harnesses the power of business to create
solutions for the good of America and the world. We anticipate, develop, and deploy solutions to
challenges facing communities—today and tomorrow.

About the National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is an
annual nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle
school students, their families, and communities. The National Civics Bee helps elevate civics
as a national priority through a network of state, regional, and local organizations across the
country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding
partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as Andrew Carnegie Corporation, Citizen Travelers, and other
funders.

Scroll To Top