Nominations Open for NC Chamber’s 2026 “Coolest Thing

Made in NC” Contest

North Carolina manufacturers once again have the opportunity to showcase the innovation, craftsmanship, and products that make the state a national leader in manufacturing. The NC Chamber has officially opened nominations for the seventh annual Coolest Thing Made in NC contest, presented by Allegacy Financial. [Home - Coo...Made in NC]

The statewide competition highlights products manufactured in North Carolina and gives the public a chance to help determine which product earns the title of the Coolest Thing Made in NC. This year, manufacturers will compete in three categories based on company size, creating opportunities for businesses of all sizes to gain statewide recognition. 

What Can Be Nominated?

Any product manufactured in North Carolina is eligible, regardless of where the company is headquartered. Products can range from:

• Advanced machinery
• Aerospace components
• Food and beverage products
• Textiles and apparel
• Technology and industrial equipment
• Consumer products and more

The contest celebrates the breadth and diversity of North Carolina's manufacturing sector, one of the state's most important economic drivers. Manufacturing generates more than 12% of North Carolina's Gross State Product and supports more than 453,000 jobs statewide.

Submit Your Nomination Today

What’s the coolest thing made in your region of North Carolina?

The NC Chamber is encouraging businesses, employees, customers, and community members to nominate products that showcase the innovation and ingenuity of North Carolina manufacturers.

Nominations are open through Thursday, August 13.

🔗 Nominate a product:
https://coolestthingmadeinnc.com/nominate

Looking Back at 2025

The contest continues to grow each year, shining a spotlight on manufacturers that drive economic growth and innovation across the state. Readers can learn more about the products that captured statewide attention during last year's competition by viewing the 2025 winners and nominees on the contest website. 

Celebrating North Carolina Manufacturing

What began as a textile-based economy has evolved into a technologically advanced manufacturing powerhouse. The Coolest Thing Made in NC contest recognizes the companies and products that continue to shape the state's future through innovation, creativity, and economic impact.

Whether it's a cutting-edge aerospace component, a locally produced consumer product, or the next great manufacturing innovation, now is the time to nominate the products that make North Carolina proud.

Learn more and submit a nomination today at:
https://coolestthingmadeinnc.com/nominate