The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce and U.S. Chamber Foundation Partner to Bring the 2026 National Civics Bee ® to Okaloosa County, Florida

 The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, presented by Eglin Federal Credit Union, is proud to partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics Bee to Okaloosa County for the 2025–2026 program year. COX Communications will support this year’s competition as the Technology Sponsor, enhancing the overall event experience.

This annual initiative, now expanding to all 50 states in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, invites middle school students to showcase their civics 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. The Okaloosa County live competition will take place on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Beachside Church in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. 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. 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.

“As the first chamber of commerce in Florida to register and host the National Civics Bee, everything about the planning process was new for both our chamber and our school system,” said Ted Corcoran, president and CEO of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce. “We were thrilled by the number of students who participated in our inaugural year, and even more inspired to grow.

“While we were already committed to continuing the Bee in year two, having our Okaloosa County winner go on to become the Florida State Champion, and then compete in the National Finals in Washington, D.C., truly sealed the deal. This year, we’re eager to see even greater engagement from students, schools, and sponsors as we continue to champion this incredible opportunity to celebrate civic knowledge and leadership among our youth.”

The essay application portal is now open and closes on Feb. 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. HST. All students in grades 6-8 are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/ncb-how-it-works/. 

“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we have a powerful opportunity and responsibility to reignite civic learning across the country,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “Our hope is that the National Civics Bee inspires more schools to prioritize civics education, equipping young people with a deeper understanding of how our government and democracy work, and the essential role they play in strengthening their communities and our nation.”

For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org.

For additional information, please email rachellegraves@fwbchamber.org.

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About The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce is a community development organization that advocates for businesses across Okaloosa County, creating greater opportunities for all. The Chamber brings together the business, non-profit, governmental, and cultural leaders of our area, which strengthens local business and enhances the quality of life in our community. The Chamber offers business promotion, advocacy on local issues, exposure to its members, and various opportunities to serve the community. 

2026 National Civics Bee ® to Okaloosa County, Florida