Bend, Oregon – After a two‑week public voting period, the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Oregon contest has been trimmed to four semifinalists. The competition, now in its fourth year, is organized by Oregon Business & Industry (OBI) to showcase home‑grown products that exemplify the state’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Who made the semifinalist list
The four products that earned a spot in the semifinal round are:
- Wayfinder Ride‑On Toys – a line of assistive‑technology ride‑on vehicles from PNW Assistive Technology, based in Eugene.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Tillamook’s flagship cheddar, produced in Tillamook.
- Model 1600 Over‑Snow Vehicle – Tucker Sno‑Cat’s heavy‑duty snow machine, manufactured in Medford.
- RMX Reverse Tanto Folding Knife – a versatile folding knife from Work Sharp, made in Ashland.
These entries were selected from an original field of 16 finalists that represented products from across the state, ranging from Ashland to Portland. A panel of industry experts first narrowed the field based on scores submitted by Oregonians during the spring and summer nomination period.
How the public is voting
Voting opened two weeks ago on the Oregon Business & Industry website, allowing residents to cast a single vote for their favorite product each day. The public’s input will determine which two entries advance to the final round. The current voting window closes on Monday, Oct. 12.
OBI encourages all Oregonians to participate, noting that the contest not only highlights innovative manufacturing but also reinforces the state’s commitment to supporting local businesses and families. “When Oregonians rally behind home‑grown products, we strengthen our economy and celebrate the ingenuity that defines our communities,” said an OBI spokesperson.
What’s next
The two finalists will be announced at OBI’s annual Vision Oregon event in Portland on Oct. 28. The ceremony will feature a showcase of the remaining products, speeches from state business leaders, and a celebration of Oregon’s manufacturing heritage.
Local businesses and community members have praised the contest as a valuable platform for small‑to‑mid‑size manufacturers to gain statewide exposure. “Being recognized in a statewide competition helps us reach new customers and validates the hard work our team puts into every product,” said a representative from Work Sharp.
For those who missed the voting deadline, OBI will continue to promote the finalists through its website and social‑media channels, ensuring the products receive ongoing visibility as the state heads toward the final announcement.
About Oregon Business & Industry
Oregon Business & Industry is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering a vibrant, competitive business climate in Oregon. Through advocacy, research, and events like the Coolest Thing Made in Oregon contest, OBI works to connect entrepreneurs with resources, policymakers, and the broader community.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
