A Boundary Waters-scented candle, potato salad and high-performance water skis are just a few of the products vying for the title of “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota.”
The first head-to-head bracket of the second annual competition, which is hosted by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce and BMO, was announced Tuesday and is now in the hands of the public until a winner is crowned.
The first bracket, which is made up of 64 products, was chosen by a council of industry peers from a list of all the nominations.
“This contest is a chance to shine a spotlight on the innovation, creativity and quality that set Minnesota apart,” said Doug Loon, president and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, in a news release.
Edible contestants include Kraft Heinz’s Velveeta cheese block, Dapper Barons’ Espresso Martini, a jalapeno cream ale from Jack Pine Brewery and, of course, SPAM from Hormel Foods.
Other products showcase the versatility of Minnesota’s landscapes like the Gunflint Canoe Paddle from Sanborn Canoe Company, a teardrop-shaped trailer from Vistabule and an all-terrain military vehicle from Polaris.
More than 40% of Minnesota’s Fortune 500 companies are in manufacturing and more than 320,000 Minnesotans work in the industry, according to the chamber.
Finalists for last year’s inaugural competition included an all-terrain wheelchair, floating wetland islands, a leather boot from Red Wing Shoe Co., and the winner, Scotch Magic Tape from 3M.
“From iconic consumer goods to cutting-edge technology, the variety of entries reflects the strength and diversity of our manufacturing sector,” said Loon. “Now it’s up to Minnesotans to vote for what they think is the coolest thing made in our state.”
Each week, the competition will be cut in half until one product is named the “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota” at the 2025 Manufacturers’ Summit on Oct. 3.
To cast your vote, go to http://pipr.es/CcOxwe4.
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