The tip-off of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s fifth annual Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana competition is approaching.
The Indiana Chamber is seeking nominations from Indiana manufacturers who make something they think is cool. The Chamber wants to hear from companies that make all kinds of things, from veteran manufacturers to budding entrepreneurs. The goal is to showcase the array of manufacturing happening in the state that has helped its economy thrive.
“This event has gotten a huge response in terms of entries each year it has been held, and we expect more of the same this year,” said Vanessa Green Sinders, Indiana Chamber president and CEO, in a press release. “It seems with each passing year, the contest gets more attention from the public, with many thousands of votes cast, and media outlets cover the competition round by round. This event has quickly become a welcome tradition for these businesses and another impactful way to celebrate Hoosier innovation.”
The Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana competition combines the state’s manufacturing tradition with a high school hoops-style single elimination tournament. Voters determine the winners of each round until the single coolest product winner remains. Matchups are determined through an online randomizer.
Last year, the contest ended with co-champions. Hard Truth Whiskey Co. in Nashville won for its sweet mash whiskey and Harpsicle Harps in Rising Sun won with its lever harp.
In 2023, Hoosier Racing Tire of Lakeville was crowned as the producer of the Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana for its racing tires. In 2022, Maple Leaf Farms of Leesburg took home first place for its roast half duck. Janus Motorcycles of Goshen won the inaugural competition.
Entry for the Hoosier Hysteria-style single elimination tournament is free. Nominations will be accepted through October 13. To participate, a business does not need to be based in Indiana, but the product entered must be made in the state. Businesses are limited to having one product nominated. The tournament will conclude in November.
