Tennemo Rice Named Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee
The Dyersburg-based rice producer won the annual competition after securing votes from the public.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Organic Food
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Tennemo Rice has been named the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee by the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The Dyersburg producer earned the title following four rounds of public voting.
Why it matters
The annual competition highlights the manufacturers and local businesses that contribute significantly to the state economy. It provides a platform to showcase diverse industrial and agricultural output from across the region.
The competition drew nearly 80,000 total votes across four rounds of public participation. Tennemo Rice competed against three other finalists including the INFINITI QX65, Scare Owl, and Superconducting Magnet Systems.
The players
Tennemo Rice Family Farm and Mill
This Dyersburg-based agricultural operation is the producer of the 2026 award-winning rice.
Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry
This organization represents the interests of businesses and presents the annual competition.
The details
Produced by the Tennemo Rice Family Farm and Mill in Dyersburg, the rice beat out complex machinery and automotive products to take the top spot. The winner was officially crowned at the Made in Tennessee Building located in Lebanon.
Timeline
Nominations for the competition opened in June 2026.
The winner was announced on September 30, 2026.
Culture Shift
This award follows the pattern set by the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry annual Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee competition. It underscores a broader trend of celebrating local manufacturing and agricultural diversity through public engagement.
Residents may see an increase in local availability for the award-winning rice at regional markets and grocery stores. The win also highlights Dyersburg as a growing hub for Tennessee agricultural products.
The takeaway
The success of a small-scale farm mill in a field of high-tech competitors demonstrates strong consumer support for local food systems. Shoppers can actively influence regional economic priorities by participating in state-wide industrial recognition programs.
Further reading
Learn more about local agricultural production and industry standards on the Organic Food page.
More information
View a list of all participants and full Competition information and finalists.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Thunderbolt Radio.
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