March 15, 2022 – The Nomination period is now open for the “Makers Madness” contest hosted by the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, a bracket-style tournament in which voters across the state will decide which product is The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois.
The competition shines a light on Illinois’s diverse manufacturing sector, which has played a critical role in the state and nation’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. Manufacturers are developing life-saving vaccines and treatments, producing needed personal protective equipment, keeping store shelves stocked with important goods and nutritious foods, and powering our homes and businesses.
From now until March 20, manufacturers in Illinois can nominate others or their own product. The nominations will then be voted on from March 20 to April 3 to see who makes the bracket. Ultimately, the winner will be announced on April 27 with multiple rounds of voting allowing Illinois residents to have their say.
In 2020, Decatur Caterpillar’s 797F Large Mining Truck was crowned “The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois” after nearly 300,000 votes. In 2021, Termico Technologies’ Self-Regulating Traffic Signal Heater took home the honors.
Voting and Nominations throughout the competition will take place on the Makers Madness Website.
