The CHET Dream Big! Competition

The competition is officially closed to new entries: Thank you and good luck to all entrants! Check back in March 2026 for a list of winners.


Education helps build a child's future

Win up to $20,000 to save for education in a CHET 529 account and help build their future.

How it works for 2025

Submit an original essay, video, or artwork (painting, drawing, or illustration) based on the following specific grade-level topics:


  • K–4th grade: When you grow up, what would you like to be and why?
  • 5th–8th grades: Describe a time when something inspired you to do something good—like helping someone, making a change, or standing up for what's right.
  • 9th–12th grades: Tell us about an experience or person in your life that has impacted you and how this will influence your future goals.

Official Contest Rules (PDF)

2025 prizes for winning students

  • 3 Grand Prize winners receive $20,000 (1 student from each age group).
  • 24 winners receive $5,000 (8 students from each age group).
  • 240 winners receive $500 (80 students from each age group).
  • 10 randomly selected participating schools win $5,000 in tech equipment.

Official Contest Rules (PDF)


About the Connecticut Higher Education Trust (CHET) 529 College Savings Program

The CHET 529 College Savings Program, sponsored by the Connecticut Office of the Treasurer and managed by Fidelity, offers tax advantages, flexible use of funds, investment choices, and other account benefits to help save for future education.


Learn more about CHET 529

Questions?

If you have any questions about the competition, contact dreambiginfo@dja.com (please note that this email address isn't monitored by Fidelity Investments).


Learn more about The Connecticut Higher Education Trust 529 College Savings Program.