NCCE strives to educate consumers of all ages to be smart and responsible players in the market place. LifeSmarts is only one of NCCE's programs. The content and competition questions focus on five key areas of consumer knowledge that teens need to know to function effectively in today's marketplace. It teaches them to spot and avoid frauds and scams and to make smart choices and purchasing decisions. Brochures, booklets, videos, teaching guides, text books, and other educational resources provided by government agencies, businesses, consumer groups, and trade associations are the source of this information which can easily be obtained by any consumer.
Players win prizes such as savings bonds, products, certificates, t-shirts, hats and other items.
The state champion team represents their state at the national competition.