WMC and Johnson Financial Group Celebrate Ten Years of the Contest
MADISON– Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) – the combined state chamber and manufacturers’ association – is again partnering with Johnson Financial Group to host a statewide competition to find the “Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin.”
The contest, celebrating its tenth year, draws attention to state’s top industry – manufacturing – and the Wisconsinites who are devoted to it. Last year alone, the manufacturing industry contributed over $73.7 billion to the state’s GDP, generating an estimated $42.8 billion in earnings for manufacturing workers.
“Our manufacturers drive the Wisconsin and national economies forward,” said Kurt R. Bauer, President & CEO of WMC. “The Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin isn’t just about the products; it’s about the people who make those products and their contributions to our communities.”
Since the contest’s inception in 2016, over 1.5 million votes have been cast for over one thousand products. Manufacturers from numerous sub-sectors and every corner of the state have competed for the title of Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin. Winning products have included iconic soda, high-tech beverage dispensers, firetrucks, cranes, motorcycles, military vehicles, robotic carts, rifles, and even kringle.
WMC was the first organization to launch a “Coolest” contest ten years ago. Now, 25 other state chambers and manufacturing organizations host similar programs for their state’s manufacturers.
“Wisconsin has the best manufacturers in the world, and it’s always our pleasure to highlight the fantastic – and truly cool – products they make,” Bauer continued. “We can’t wait to crown the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin!”
WMC and Johnson Financial Group are accepting nominations starting Aug. 25 at www.madeinwis.com. Any product that is manufactured in Wisconsin qualifies for the contest, regardless of company size.
“As we embark on this special 10th anniversary, we are more committed than ever to recognizing the ingenuity and hard work of our local manufacturers. This contest serves as a platform to showcase their contributions to the economy and to inspire the next generation of manufacturing leaders,” said Jim Popp, President and CEO of Johnson Financial Group. “We are honored to continue this tradition and look forward to another year of incredible submissions and inspiring stories. This contest not only highlights the remarkable products and technologies created right here in our state, but also fosters a sense of pride among our manufacturers.”
Following the nomination period from Aug. 25 through Sept. 12, a popular vote will determine the Top 16 products that will be placed in a bracket-style tournament called Manufacturing Madness. Products will compete against one another in head-to-head match-ups, and the products that receive the highest votes in each match-up will advance to the next round. Manufacturers, consumers, employees and other Wisconsinites are encouraged to vote once per day, per email address through the rounds of voting.
This year’s Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin will be announced at WMC’s Business Day event in Madison on Oct. 23.
For more information about the contest or to submit a nomination, visit www.madeinwis.com.
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