Central Wisconsin Firms Joined Manufacturing Contest
Seven local companies have been nominated for the annual Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin manufacturing competition.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Consumer Goods
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Seven businesses from central Wisconsin have entered the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin contest. They join a total field of 108 nominees competing to highlight the state's manufacturing industry.
Why it matters
The competition spotlights regional manufacturers and products to drive awareness and support for local production. Participation offers these companies a platform to engage the public and gain recognition for their goods.
The contest features 108 total nominees, with 7 companies from the central region participating. Only 16 nominees will advance to the bracket phase, where they will compete until 8 companies remain after the first round.
The players
Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce
This organization represents the interests of Wisconsin businesses and serves as the organizer of the Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin competition.
Apex Space and Defense
Located in Schofield, this company produces composite driveshafts from its 45,000-square-foot facility.
Jacoby Custom Cues
Based in Nekoosa, this manufacturer produces custom pool cues.
Wenzel's Farm
This Marshfield-based company produces Wenzel's PRO Original Sticks.
The details
Companies in the running include Apex Space and Defense, Jacoby Custom Cues, King Cone, Mill Creek Manufacturing, Stevens Point Brewery, Stevens Point Sauce Company, and Wenzel's Farm. These nominees are currently participating in a popular vote round, with the top 16 set to proceed to head-to-head bracket matchups.
Timeline
August 24 - September 11: Nominations were accepted for the contest.
September 21 - September 29: First round of popular voting occurs.
September 30: Announcement of the top 16 nominees.
October 2 - October 7: First round of bracket voting occurs.
October 27: The contest winner is announced.
Market Landscape
This contest follows the documented trend of regional manufacturing showcases intended to boost state-level industrial brand visibility. The event captures a competitive environment where local firms vie for consumer attention against broader manufacturing rivals across the state.
Residents can participate in the popular vote round until September 29 to support their favorite local manufacturers. This engagement helps determine which regional products advance in the competition, potentially influencing brand recognition for the participating companies.
The takeaway
The Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin contest offers a unique view of the diversity of goods produced throughout the state. Consumers are encouraged to explore these local brands as the bracket voting begins in October.
What happens next
The contest progresses through a series of key dates, starting with the announcement of the top 16 nominees on September 30, followed by bracket voting in early October and the final winner announcement on October 27.
Further reading
For additional updates on local manufacturing initiatives, visit Consumer Goods.
More information
For more information about the competition or to cast a vote, visit the Official contest information portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wausau Pilot & Review.
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