Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin, 100+ products for 8th annual contest

Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce on Thursday announced more than 100 nominees for its 8th annual Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin contest.

WMC said the competition, sponsored by Johnson Financial Group, highlights the state’s $70 billion dollar manufacturing industry and the "high-tech, high-skill and high-pay career opportunities available."

"Each year, this competition connects manufacturers with their local communities, generating public engagement and excitement," said WMC’s Nick Novak. "Manufacturers employ nearly 500,000 Wisconsinites and produce some incredible products, and we appreciate the opportunity to showcase their work and draw attention to what happens right here in our backyard."

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The 2023 nominees represent every corner of the state and a wide array of industries, WMC said – including industrial equipment, food products, recreational gear, home goods and high-tech innovations.

"Wisconsin is a national leader in manufacturing, which wouldn’t be possible without the hardworking and innovative employees in the state’s top industry," Novak said. "This year’s nominees demonstrate not only how many cool things Wisconsinites produce, but also the career opportunities and economic output of the entire manufacturing industry."

A popular vote round, beginning Monday, Sept. 18, will determine the Top 16 products that will compete in a bracket-style tournament called "Manufacturing Madness." During each of the rounds, the public is encouraged to vote once per day, per device on the Made in Wisconsin webste

The 2023 Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin will be crowed at WMC’s Business Day in Madison on Oct. 19.