For 120 years, the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) has championed manufacturers through legislative advocacy, workforce development, education, training, networking and cost savings. We know how important it is to maintain an atmosphere that helps manufacturing thrive. ABI remains committed to this goal.
In 2024, ABI is partnering with MidWestOne to determine the Coolest Thing Made in Iowa. The competition aims to highlight the state’s vibrant manufacturing industry. The competition not only brings attention to all the cool things made in Iowa, but also the outstanding career opportunities available in manufacturing – an industry that employs 225,000 people in the state and contributes over $38 billion to the economy!
ABI and MidWestOne are joining nearly 20 other state associations who have hosted successful competitions. Nominated products in other states have ranged from motorcycles, military vehicles, cheese products, boats, generators, food carts, iron castings, beer, all-terrain vehicles, snow blowers and much, much more. So we are excited to show off the COOL products made here in Iowa.
Nominations will be open to the public. After products are nominated, they compete in a popular vote that sets the field for a tournament-style bracket. The Top 16 Iowa-made products compete in head-to-head matchups to win the ultimate prize – being named the Coolest Thing Made in Iowa.
The winner is announced each year during the Taking Care of Business Conference.