When financial education becomes a field trip they’ll carry for life

Every January, thousands of students from middle schools and high schools across the country embark on a journey that could change their lives. Through the SIFMA Foundation's Capitol Hill Challenge™, they learn the fundamentals of investing, teamwork, and civic engagement—all while managing a hypothetical $100,000 portfolio through the virtual Stock Market Game™.

While it's a competition, it's also a hands-on experience that teaches young people how markets work and why financial literacy matters. Each student team is paired with a member of Congress, creating a unique connection between education and civic responsibility. Over 14 weeks, these students research, strategize, and make financial decisions—skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Since its inception in 2004, the Capitol Hill Challenge has engaged 180,000+ students and prioritized participation from Title I schools and underserved communities. It's one of the most innovative financial education programs in the country.

At Schwab, we believe financial literacy is essential. That’s why Charles Schwab Foundation is proud to sponsor and underwrite the Capitol Hill Challenge.

Programs like the Capitol Hill Challenge work because they move financial education beyond theory and into practice—something educators and program leaders see every day.

Our commitment at Schwab goes beyond funding. We provide resources, volunteers, and advocacy to ensure students—regardless of background—have access to the knowledge and confidence they need to make smart financial decisions. Programs like this align with our broader mission: to help people of all backgrounds achieve brighter futures by advancing financial literacy and fostering stronger communities.

The reality is stark: less than 10% of students in low-income schools have guaranteed access to financial education.¹ We see that as a call to action. By supporting initiatives like the Capitol Hill Challenge, we're helping close that gap and prepare the next generation for success.

As a parent of two children, I've seen firsthand how early conversations about money can spark curiosity and confidence. Helping my kids open their first bank accounts turned into a great moment to talk about saving, spending, and the discipline of using a simple budget. It was a reminder that small, real-world experiences are often the best way to build confidence and healthy financial habits early.

Whether it's explaining what stock is or talking about saving for a goal, these moments matter. They're not just about dollars—they're about values, responsibility, and independence.

That's why programs like the Capitol Hill Challenge resonate so deeply with me. They give students the tools to make informed decisions and the confidence to shape their future. And they remind us that financial literacy is a life skill that supports opportunity, independence, and long-term financial wellbeing—and it often starts at home.

As families prepare for the future, programs like the Capitol Hill Challenge ensure that tomorrow's investors are ready.

We invite families, educators, and communities to join us in this mission. Whether through national programs like the Capitol Hill Challenge or family conversations at home, every step toward financial knowledge is a step toward empowerment.

At Schwab, we're proud to champion these efforts—and we're excited to help the next generation become financially confident.

This June, the top 10 performing Capitol Hill Challenge teams will have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., where they'll meet members of Congress and celebrate their achievements. It's a powerful reminder of what's possible when education and opportunity come together.