More than 25 businesses located in Northeast Wisconsin have earned nominations for the 2026 Coolest Things Made in Wisconsin contest, a showcase of the state’s thriving manufacturing sector. The first round of voting runs through Tuesday, Sept. 29, and the competition features a total of 108 nominees across a wide range of products.
Why the contest matters to local families and the state economy
The contest is organized by Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce (WMC), an association that represents the state’s $73.8 billion manufacturing industry. WMC President and CEO Kurt R. Bauer explained that the program “exists to shine a spotlight on the incredible innovation, craftsmanship, and manufacturing excellence that are at the cornerstone of Wisconsin’s economy.” He added that the contest gives Wisconsinites an opportunity to learn about and celebrate products made in their own communities, while also recognizing manufacturers who provide family‑supporting careers and contribute roughly 20 percent of the state’s gross domestic product.
Among the nominees are beloved Wisconsin icons such as the original cheesehead and Johnsonville Brats, as well as heavy‑duty equipment like Ariens lawn‑mowers built in Brillion and sport‑airplanes produced in Oshkosh. The diverse lineup underscores the breadth of the state’s manufacturing capabilities, from food and consumer goods to advanced machinery and aerospace.
How voting works and what’s next
Voting began on Sept. 21 and is open to anyone with an email address, allowing one vote per day per email. The top 16 vote‑earners will advance to the “Manufacturing Madness” phase, where the remaining companies will compete head‑to‑head until a single winner is crowned. The final announcement will take place at WMC’s Business Day in Madison on Oct. 27.
Residents are encouraged to visit the contest’s website, review the product descriptions, and cast their daily votes. Participation not only supports local businesses but also reinforces the community’s pride in home‑grown innovation.
Economic impact and community pride
Wisconsin’s manufacturing sector remains a cornerstone of the state’s economy, providing well‑paying jobs and sustaining families across the region. By highlighting these products, the contest helps boost visibility for companies that might otherwise remain under the radar, potentially leading to new orders, partnerships, and growth opportunities.
For families, the contest offers a fun, engaging way to connect with the products that shape daily life—from the cheesehead worn at football games to the reliable lawn‑mower that keeps yards tidy each summer. It also serves as a reminder that many of the items people rely on are crafted right here in Wisconsin, reinforcing a sense of local pride and self‑reliance.
Get involved
To vote, visit the official contest page, select your favorite nominees, and submit your vote each day through Sept. 29. The competition not only celebrates Wisconsin’s manufacturing heritage but also encourages the next generation to consider careers in the industry, ensuring that the state’s tradition of craftsmanship endures.
Stay tuned for the October 27 announcement at WMC’s Business Day in Madison, where the winner will be revealed and the state’s manufacturing excellence will be celebrated once again.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
