Illinois residents can nominate the coolest thing made in the state

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association is taking nominations for the coolest thing made in the state.

The sixth annual “Makers Madness” contest will determine the favorite product manufactured in Illinois.

Nominations are open until March 2nd, and then the top 16 products will be put up for a public vote.

Qualifying products must be made in Illinois, even if the manufacturer’s headquarters is located out of state.

“Makers Madness showcases the many amazing and unique products created by manufacturers that consumers enjoy throughout Illinois and across the globe,” said Mark Denzler, President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association. “Illinois is a land of innovation and manufacturers are creating groundbreaking products that feed, heal, build and power our communities. We look forward to the friendly competition ahead as manufacturers vie for votes and we shine a spotlight on their incredible work.” 

Last year’s winner was the Komatsu mining truck, built in Peoria.

Previous winners included the Rosenberg Moon Habitat, made by Ingersoll Machine Tools in Rockford, and the Rivian R1T electric pickup truck, made by Rivian in Normal.