The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for its Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana competition.
The chamber is partnering with the Indiana Destination Development Corp. to put on the program. The competition dovetails with the IDDC's IN Indiana marketing campaign. The organizations aim to grow and promote the competition and the companies that compete in it.
“Showcasing Indiana’s talent and premiere craftsmanship are two of the many reasons why the ‘IN Indiana’ identifier and overall campaign align with and elevate this initiative,” said Elaine Bedel, IDDC secretary and CEO, in a press release. “We are honored to be able to highlight the individuals and organizations that are so vital to the story we tell.”
The competition will be a Hoosier Hysteria-style elimination tournament. Online fan voting determines the winner of each matchup. The tournament tips off in October and ends in November.
“We’re truly excited to put a brighter spotlight on this popular and fun contest but also the makers that are so important to Indiana’s economy,” said Vanessa Green Sinders, Indiana Chamber president and CEO. “The fact that such a variety of great companies are flourishing here demonstrates how fertile Indiana is for growing a business.”
Last year, Hoosier Racing Tire was crowned the winner of the Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana for its racing tire. Goshen-based Janus Motorcycles took top honors in the inaugural competition. In 2022, the chamber honored Maple Leaf Farms of Leesburg for its roast half duck.
The winner will receive a feature article in the chamber’s magazine. Awards for the top finishers will be presented at the 2024 Best IN Manufacturing Awards Luncheon on Dec. 11 at the Indiana Roof Ballroom.
Nominations will be accepted through Oct. 18. Learn more about the competition here.