The search is back on for the “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota,” as the state’s chamber of commerce kicks off its second annual public contest to celebrate standout manufacturing across Minnesota. The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce opened nominations on July 7 for the 2025 competition, which is designed to showcase the diversity, creativity, and economic impact of products made within the state’s borders. Open to manufacturers of all sizes and sectors, the contest gives businesses and community members a chance to shine a spotlight on innovative products created in Minnesota facilities.
Last year’s contest attracted widespread attention, with Maplewood-based 3M emerging as the winner for its Scotch Magic Tape — a household staple and globally recognized product developed and manufactured in Minnesota. The chamber hopes to replicate that enthusiasm and even expand the reach of this year’s contest.
“This contest highlights the creativity, ingenuity, and craftsmanship of products that fuel our economy and improve lives—not just here in Minnesota, but around the world,” said Doug Loon, president and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber.
The nomination window will remain open through August 15. Any product made in Minnesota is eligible, as long as it’s produced by a company with a physical presence in the state and has been operating for at least two years. Companies do not need to be members of the chamber to enter, and each business is limited to one nomination per contest year.
Nominations can be submitted by company employees or outside parties, as long as they provide a company contact to confirm the product’s eligibility. The product must be manufactured in Minnesota, although the company itself may be headquartered elsewhere.
After the nomination period closes, a review panel will evaluate submissions and narrow the field to 64 top entries. Those products will enter a five-week, bracket-style competition where the public will vote on weekly matchups between entries, narrowing the pool each round. The initial bracket will be revealed on September 2, with voting running through October 5.
The product that emerges as the winner of the head-to-head voting contest will be revealed on October 7 at the 2025 Manufacturers’ Summit, hosted by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. The event, expected to draw business leaders, manufacturers, and economic development officials from across the state, will feature the awards ceremony as a highlight of the summit’s programming.
The “Coolest Thing” contest comes at a time when Minnesota’s manufacturing sector continues to play a crucial role in the state’s economy. Manufacturing accounts for the largest share of private-sector GDP in Minnesota and supports more than 325,000 jobs across the state. It is also the leading contributor to Minnesota’s exports, with locally made products shipped to hundreds of global markets each year.
By celebrating the products
that exemplify innovation, quality, and utility, the chamber hopes to raise awareness of the industry’s economic importance while also boosting pride in Minnesota-made goods.
Last year’s contest demonstrated the power of familiar, long-standing products to connect with voters, but the chamber emphasizes that innovation and originality are just as welcome. Products across industries — from medical devices and recreational gear to food products and industrial tools — are all eligible for nomination.
In addition to public recognition, winners benefit from increased exposure, press attention, and opportunities for business development. The competition also fosters greater public engagement with Minnesota’s manufacturing sector, encouraging people to learn more about where products are made and how they contribute to local economies.
Minnesotans interested in nominating a product or following the voting rounds can visit the contest website at coolestthingmn.com for full details.
