The Indiana Chamber honored Maple Leaf Farms of Leesburg in December for its roast half duck in the Coolest Thing Made in Indiana competition. InkFreeNews file photo.

News Release

INDIANAPOLIS — Makers of things ingenious, interesting and off the wall, it’s time to see if you’re the coolest of them all.

The Indiana Chamber’s third annual Coolest Thing Made in Indiana competition is back and combines the state’s proud manufacturing tradition and passion for basketball. Entries are being accepted for the Hoosier Hysteria-style single elimination tournament at indianachamber.com/coolest. Entry is free, and nominations will be accepted through Tuesday, Oct. 10.

To participate, a company does not need to be headquartered in Indiana, but the product entered must be manufactured in the state. Businesses are limited to having one product nominated.

Online fan voting determines the winner of each match-up. The tournament tips off in late October and concludes in November.

“Each year, we are pleased to see the wide range of companies — large and small — that take part and proudly show off what they are known for. It’s wonderful recognition for them and helps us showcase all the great products that are home grown right here,” said Indiana Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Brinegar. “It’s this variety of manufacturing that continues to help our economy thrive. We encourage both longtime manufacturers and budding entrepreneurs to participate.”

Janus Motorcycles of Goshen took top honors in the inaugural competition and in December, the Indiana Chamber honored Maple Leaf Farms of Leesburg for its roast half duck.

The winning company will receive a feature article in the Indiana Chamber’s BizVoice magazine and an invitation to appear on the organization’s “IN Chamber” podcast. Awards for the top finishers will be presented at the 2023 Best IN Manufacturing Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, Dec. 13, at the Indiana Roof Ballroom.

The Coolest Thing Made in Indiana and Indiana Best Places to Work in Manufacturing programs are supported by spirit sponsor Purdue Manufacturing Extension Partnership; gold sponsor Kalenborn Abresist Corp.; and silver sponsor Evonik Corp. Tippecanoe Labs.

Additional sponsorships are available for the event; contact Tim Brewer at (317) 496-0704 or [email protected].