Have you ever thought about what cool products are made right here in Indiana? The Indiana Chamber is hosting its annual Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana Tournament, where businesses across the state compete to showcase the amazing things they create. And guess what? Five businesses from northeast Indiana have made it to the Sweet 16!
Here’s how the tournament works: Companies compete in a bracket-style contest, and the public gets to vote for their favorite products. It’s like March Madness for Indiana-made items!
Meet the Cool Contenders from Northeast Indiana:
1. Blue Fox Farms, LLC (Wawaka, Noble County): They grow dormant ephemeral plant roots that are sold to nurseries across the U.S. These plants are perfect for gardens and landscapes!
2. Country Roads Coffee (Albion, Noble County): This family-owned company sources coffee beans from around the world and roasts them locally for a fresh, delicious brew.
3. Gator (Columbia City, Whitley County): Gator makes the Guitar Mini Vault, a weather-resistant case that keeps guitars safe with its durable plastic shell and foam interior.
4. Fort Wayne Metals (Fort Wayne, Allen County): They make a product called Nitinol, a material used in medical devices, tires, braces, and even shoes!
5. L3Harris (Fort Wayne, Allen County): This company creates satellite instruments that provide real-time weather data from space. How cool is that?
What’s Next?
These five businesses will compete for a spot in the quarterfinals, with voting open until this Friday. The semifinals take place Nov. 27-Dec. 2, and the finals will be Dec. 3-5. The ultimate winner will be crowned at the Best IN Manufacturing Awards on Dec. 11.
How Can You Help?
You can cast your vote for your favorite product! It’s a fun way to support local businesses and see which Indiana-made product comes out on top. Check out all the Sweet 16 participants and vote online.
So, which product do you think deserves to win the title of Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana? Let us know your favorite!
Voting closes soon, so don’t wait—help make history!
Vote here