Announcing the Thrilling Return of the National Economics Challenge
Competition Aims to Inspire Economic Literacy Among Students
The Council for Economic Education (CEE) has officially launched the much-awaited National Economics Challenge (NEC) for 2025, designed to engage high school students in understanding the complexities of economics. This premier nationwide competition draws over 8,000 students who will test their knowledge in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and global economics.
Comprehensive Competition Structure
In early 2025, the competition will kick off with regional and state-level contests allowing students from various backgrounds to form teams and collaborate with their coaches through multiple challenging rounds. The online National Semi-Finals are scheduled for April 21 to April 24, 2025, leading into the high-stakes Finals. During these Finals, teams will analyze contemporary economic issues and participate in an exhilarating quiz bowl to crown the national champion.
A Unique Learning Opportunity
The stakes are high, with cash prizes set to be awarded to the finalists. Additionally, the team that emerges victorious will have the exceptional opportunity to conduct an economic analysis project and present their findings to a senior economist at Morgan Stanley, which serves as the national corporate partner for this year’s challenge. This initiative embodies CEE’s commitment to nurturing a passion for economics in America’s youth, a fundamental step toward achieving financial equity.
Competition Finals Location Announced
The highly anticipated Finals of the 2025 NEC will take place from May 28 to 30 at VOYA Financial's headquarters, located in Atlanta, GA. This year, the competition will be divided into two distinct divisions: the David Ricardo Division for newcomers and the Adam Smith Division catering to returnees and honors students.
Developing Essential Skills
Chris Caltabiano, Chief Program Officer at the Council for Economic Education, expressed his enthusiasm: "Each year, we witness students rise to the challenge, illustrating their deep understanding and application of economic principles. The NEC enriches students' economic literacy, while simultaneously fostering critical career-building skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, and presentation abilities. It's about creating informed future leaders in a changing economic landscape."
About the Council for Economic Education
The mission of the Council for Economic Education (CEE) is paramount: to equip K–12 students with vital economic knowledge and financial literacy skills necessary for making informed decisions in their personal and community lives. The CEE fulfills this mission by advocating for the integration of financial education into curricula across all states and offering an array of training, resources, and tools through over 180 affiliates nationwide, reaching more than 40,000 teachers annually. These educators play a crucial role in imparting high-quality economics and personal finance education to over 4 million students. Moreover, CEE emphasizes the introduction of critical career skills to high school students through its national competitions and initiatives like the Invest in Girls program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Economics Challenge?
The National Economics Challenge is a prestigious competition that tests high school students on their knowledge in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and global economics.
Who can participate in the NEC?
The competition is open to high school students nationwide, divided into student teams participating in regional and state contests leading up to the finals.
What prizes are awarded to winners?
Finalists earn cash prizes, and the winning team gets to present a project to a senior economist at Morgan Stanley.
When will the finals take place?
The finals of the 2025 National Economics Challenge will be held from May 28 to 30 in Atlanta, GA.
What skills do participants develop through this competition?
Participants enhance their economic literacy while building essential skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, and effective presentation abilities.
