The Search Is On for Minnesota’s Coolest Creation

What’s the coolest thing made in Minnesota? That’s the question a contest is once again asking this year as its popular contest returns, shining a spotlight on the innovative, surprising, and uniquely Minnesotan products made right here in our own backyard.

When it comes to products that we use every day, not just here, but around the world, the Land of 10,000 Lakes has been pretty active in inventing many of them. From iconic brands to hidden gems, the competition for which of those products is the coolest in the North Star State is heating up again this year, and your ideas could help crown the winner.

Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota Contest is Back For 2026

So, when you think of it, just *which* invention is the most unique thing ever made here in the Bold North? That's the question the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce is once again asking during the 2026 edition of the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota Contest.

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The contest, now in its third year, is put on by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, and it just opened nominations for 2026. It's designed to highlight our state's long history of innovation and showcase its most unique, economy-fueling products. Nominations are open now through August 14th, with voting set to take place between August 31st and October 5th.

The winner will be announced during the 2026 Manufacturer's Summit on October 6th. So, which product officially *is* the Coolest Thing Ever Made In Minnesota? First, let's explore some of the inventions you might not know were invented right here in our fair state.

A Lot of Cool Things Have Been Made Here in Minnesota

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Suppose you're looking to nominate a product for this year's contest. The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce says, "Any product manufactured in Minnesota is eligible for nomination and companies are not required to be members of the Minnesota Chamber," it noted. There are a few requirements, however: Nominees must have been in business for at least two years and have a product that is made in the state using a manufacturing process.

Previous Winners of the Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota

The winner of the inaugural Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota contest in 2024 was Scotch® Magic™ Tape. That's right, the familiar product was invented by 3M back in 1961, and is now the 'preferred tape for offices, homes and schools,' the Chamber noted in 2024.

The 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota was the MRZR Alpha, a lightweight military tactical off-road vehicle designed to transport personnel and equipment across difficult terrain. It's made by Roseau-based Polaris.

To get more information about this year's contest or to nominate a product, check out the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce website HERE.