Lincoln, Neb. – On Oct. 7 the Pinnacle Bank‑backed Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska competition revealed its eight finalists, showcasing home‑grown ingenuity across the state. The list includes products and technologies from eight different communities, with one entry representing the capital.
Who Made the List
The finalists, announced in no particular order, are:
- Hi‑Rail Excavator and Snowblower – Ceres Group, Omaha
- Modular Housing – Family Built Homes, Gering
- Fresh, Stoned Milled Flour – Grand Republic Milling Company, Gering
- TAU‑XR – Lindsay Corporation, Lindsay
- Animal Health IV Fluids – Nova‑Tech, Inc., Grand Island
- Popcorn – Popcorn County, USA, North Loup
- PyraMAX Transmission Structures – Valmont Industries, Columbus
- MIRE‑miniRAS – Virtual Incision, Lincoln
Each entry was selected by public vote in the competition’s first round, reflecting strong community support for Nebraska‑based manufacturing and technology.
How Voting Works
Residents and interested parties can cast their votes online through the competition’s website. The second‑round voting period remains open until 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 11, giving Nebraskans ample time to weigh in on which invention should earn the title of the state’s coolest creation.
Why It Matters
Beyond the excitement of friendly rivalry, the contest highlights the state’s diverse economic base. From agricultural processing in Gering to advanced engineering in Omaha, the finalists illustrate how Nebraska companies are innovating in sectors that support families, create jobs, and uphold the values of hard work and self‑reliance cherished by our communities.
Local leaders have praised the competition as a platform that encourages entrepreneurship and showcases the practical benefits of home‑grown solutions. By spotlighting products that address real‑world needs—such as efficient snow removal equipment, affordable housing options and animal‑health supplies—the contest aligns with the broader goal of strengthening Nebraska’s economic resilience.
Next Steps
After the second round of voting closes, the competition will announce the overall winner, who will receive additional promotion and potential partnership opportunities with Pinnacle Bank and other regional investors. The event underscores the importance of community involvement in recognizing and supporting local innovators.
For more information on how to vote or to learn about the participating companies, visit the Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska website.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
