MERIT 2026 has been set up to model a construction industry operating in an economy emerging from a recession with up to date bank interest rates and charges and current corporation tax. Learning to survive as a construction business in tough market conditions with fierce competition is the knowledge currently needed by our industry executives.

After completing six rounds simulating one and half years of trading, the top teams will be invited to experience a further six periods of simulated trading in the MERIT 2026 final, the winning team will be named the 2026 MERIT Champion.

** All dates/times are provisional **

Registration

• 25 January 2026 - 06 March 2026

Trialling

• 18 February 2026 - 18 March 2026

Submissions  

• Trialling Period Closes (Round 1) - Wednesday 18 March, 18:00 UTC
• Round 2 - Wednesday 25 March, 18:00 UTC
• Round 3 - Wednesday 01 April, 18:00 UTC
• Round 4 - Wednesday 08 April, 18:00 UTC
• Round 5 - Wednesday 15 April, 18:00 UTC
• Round 6 - Wednesday 22 April, 18:00 UTC

Online Final 

• May 2026 (dates to be confirmed)