Sixteen Products Have Advanced in Wisconsin Contest

The annual competition organized by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce moves to its final tournament-style bracket.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Consumer Goods

Sixteen Products Have Advanced in Wisconsin Contest

Live Poll

Do you believe local manufacturing competitions are effective at supporting businesses in your community?

Sixteen finalists have been selected for the Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin contest. Thousands of public votes narrowed the field from over 100 original nominees to the current tournament bracket.

Why it matters

The annual competition highlights the state's manufacturing sector and promotes local production. The bracket-style event builds public engagement around Wisconsin-made consumer goods.

The competition began with more than 100 nominees, with 16 products currently moving into the final tournament-style bracket. The field will be further reduced to the Top 8 products following the next round of voting.

The players

Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce

This organization serves as the state chamber of commerce and the primary advocate for Wisconsin's business and manufacturing community.

The details

The finalists were determined by thousands of online votes cast by the public. The remaining products will now compete in a head-to-head bracket format to determine the ultimate winner.

Oct. 1: Online voting for the tournament begins.
Oct. 6: Online voting for the tournament ends.
Oct. 7: The Top 8 products will be announced.
Oct. 27: The winner will be announced at the Business Day event in Madison.

Market Landscape

This event mirrors the structural approach of the Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin competition. By utilizing a bracket-style format, the organization drives consumer awareness and engagement across the state's competitive manufacturing sector.

Residents can influence the outcome of the contest by participating in the online voting process. The results will determine which local manufacturers receive increased visibility and recognition through the state-wide tournament.

The takeaway

Engaging in this annual process allows residents to support the regional economy and recognize the variety of goods manufactured within the state. Participating in the upcoming online bracket provides a direct way for the public to influence the final selection.

What happens next

The contest will continue with a voting round starting Oct. 1 and concluding Oct. 6, followed by the announcement of the Top 8 on Oct. 7 and the final winner on Oct. 27.