The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is inviting Indiana manufacturers who make something they think is cool to show off their wares in the Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana competition.
The tip-off of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s fifth annual Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana tournament is approaching.
Entry for the Hoosier Hysteria-style single elimination tournament is free. Nominations will be accepted through October 13.
“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 Indiana Chamber wants to hear from companies that make all kinds of things, including products from veteran manufacturers and budding entrepreneurs. The shared goal is to showcase the wide array of manufacturing happening in the state that has helped its economy thrive.
The Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana competition combines the state’s manufacturing tradition with a high school hoops-style single elimination tournament. Fan voters determine the winners of each round until it’s down to the single coolest product. The matchups are determined through an online randomizer.
To participate, a business does not need to be headquartered in Indiana, but the product entered must be made in the state. Indiana Chamber membership is not required. Businesses are limited to having one product nominated. The tournament will conclude in November.
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 tire. In 2022, the Indiana Chamber honored Maple Leaf Farms of Leesburg for its roast half duck. Janus Motorcycles of Goshen took top honors in the inaugural competition.
