Stock Market Experience 2026

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

Learn.

Compete.

Invest in Your Future.

CLIMB USA’s Stock Market Experience (SME) is back for 2026 - and it’s bigger than ever! This 8-week, hands-on simulation introduces youth and adults to the fundamentals of investing through a fun, team-based competition. Participants gain real-world skills in stock research, portfolio strategy, and wealth-building - no prior experience needed.

Whether you’re a student, educator, family, or workplace team, SME is your launchpad to financial confidence.

Important SME Dates:

June 15 - August 4

First Day of Trading: June 15
First Speaker Series: June 16
Last Day of Trading: July 31
Capstone: August 4

We will make sure you are ready!

* All meetings are virtual, via Zoom, at 12pm CST | 1pm EST

Team Leader Orientation

A required session for team leaders to review expectations, logistics, and best practices before the program begins.

May 15 or May 19 (attend one)

Participant Orientation

A kickoff preparation session where all participants learn how the platform works, understand competition guidelines, and get ready for Week One.

June 9

Learn More About the Stock Market Experience!

Explore these resources to learn more about the Stock Market Experience, share it with your community, and prepare for SME 2026.

SME 1-Page Overview - [Download here] - A quick, easy-to-share summary of SME 2026 with the essentials: program dates, who can participate, what participants do, and how to learn more.

SME Program Packet - [Download here] - A detailed overview of the Stock Market Experience, including how the program works, who it’s for, weekly structure, competition details, important dates, and next steps.

SME 2026 Press Release - [Download here] - An official announcement of the Stock Market Experience (SME) 2026, highlighting program details, community impact, and opportunities for participants and partners.

SME 2026 Official Rules

Check out the official rules for the 2026 CLIMB Stock Market Experience (SME) to learn more about eligibility, competition details, and how you can win exciting cash prizes while gaining valuable investing skills!

VIEW OFFICIAL RULES

The Power of the SME Experience

Camp Quest joined SME this summer and saw firsthand how financial literacy, critical thinking, and confidence can transform young people’s futures.

The Voices of SME 2025: Roving Reporter Highlights

Catch the energy, insights, and moments that made this summer unforgettable - straight from the voices of our CLIMB Youth Leaders.

What is SME?!?!??

FUN SUMMER EXPERIENCE - 8 week simulated investment game - perfect combination of fun, networking, friendly competition and skill building!

REAL-LIFE WEALTH BUILDING SKILLS - Each participant will manage a fictional $100k stock portfolio while learning stock analysis & investing fundamentals.

TURN KEY PROGRAM - We provide weekly activities, engaging speakers & financial literacy curriculum - ready to go!

FLEXIBLE TECHNOLOGY - Platforms are easily accessed on desktops, tablets and/or phones to match your organization's needs.

Special thanks to:

CALLING ALL COMMUNITY GROUPS!!!

Engage your summer youth program with our 8-week Stock Market Experience! Youth will manage a fictional $100K portfolio, learn investing fundamentals, and compete individually and as a team. With weekly activities, expert speakers, and flexible technology, CLIMB makes financial education fun and interactive!

Bring this exciting opportunity to your group today!

(Download the program packet for more information)

SME Program Packet