Renaissance Newark Foundation Brings National Civics Bee® to New Jersey, Inspiring the Next Generation of Civic Leaders

Newark, NJ — [December 1, 2025] — The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF), the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP), the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region, today announced its inaugural involvement as a Regional Partner in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s 2026 National Civics Bee®. RNF is the first institution in New Jersey to be selected to serve in this capacity, marking a significant step toward bolstering civic engagement among the state's middle school students.

The National Civics Bee® is an impactful national initiative aimed at boosting the civic knowledge, skills, and disposition of middle school students across the United States. It works through a network of state and local chambers and nonprofit organizations, helping to elevate civics as a national priority.

Rutgers Democracy Lab at the Eagleton Institute of Politics will serve as this year's State Partner. RNF, as the Regional Partner, will host a Regional Competition, while the State Partner will host the subsequent State Finals, creating an exciting pathway for student recognition.

Ferlanda Fox Nixon, who heads RNF and is the President and CEO of NRBP, expressed RNF's motivation for participating:
“The Renaissance Newark Foundation is participating in the National Civics Bee® because we believe that informed and active citizens strengthen our country, economy, and workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the vitality of all three. Through this initiative, we are promoting greater civic knowledge in New Jersey and celebrating our civic pride.”

RNF encourages eligible students to participate in this enriching competition.
•Who Can Enter: Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in New Jersey with an idea about using civics to improve their community may apply.
•Deadline: All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Time.
•How to Apply: For more details about the application process, students should visit the official U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation website: https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/ncb-how-it-works/ or visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news, entry deadlines, and resources.

Students selected for the Regional Competition will compete for significant cash prizes:
Placement           Minimum Cash Prize
1st Place              $500
2nd Place             $250
3rd Place              $125

The date, time, and venue of the Regional Competitions are yet to be determined but will occur between March 20, 2026, and May 23, 2026.

About the Renaissance Newark Foundation
The Renaissance Newark Foundation (RNF) is the 501(c)(3) affiliate of the Newark Regional Business Partnership, the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region. RNF is dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote economic growth, community development, and civic vitality in the region. www.newarkrbp.org/rnf

About the National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee® is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as the Beth and Ravenel Curry Foundation, Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, Fisher Global Foundation, Ibis Group, The Anschutz Foundation, Wilson Garling Foundation, and other funders. civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee/

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