2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut
Celebrating Connecticut Manufacturing
Connecticut manufacturers have been innovating for over 200 years, driving growth, and shaping our economy. The Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut celebrates this legacy, showcasing world-class products and the skilled workforce that makes them.
Sixteen products from Connecticut manufacturers will go head-to-head in this single-elimination, bracket-style competition, with the public deciding the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut. The winner will be announced October 1 at the Made in Connecticut: Manufacturing Summit.
Voting opens August 20.
2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut Participants
Hugo Robotic-Assisted Surgery System vs. Geotextile Sand Filter
Kielbasa vs. Safe-T-Fresh Packaging
Satellite Propellant Isolation Valve vs. Arges Remote Spotlight
Roadster 750 vs. JAM for Accurate Designer Hardware
Satellite Bearing Cartridge vs. Dr. Sheffield’s Toothpaste
Santa Claus Brass Button vs. Dippin’ Dots DIVI Vending Machine
Manufacturing Impact on Connecticut
Manufacturers
Employees
GDP
Average Salary
Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut on WTNH’s CT Buzz
The 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut is made possible through the generous support of CLA, with additional support from ASG, Medtronic, the Connecticut Office of Manufacturing, and Ensign Bickford.
Thank you to our exclusive media partner, WTNH News 8. Tune in throughout the competition for complete coverage of the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut.
Contact CBIA’s Stacey Vendetta (860.244.1930) for more information about sponsorship opportunities.
Nominations for 2027 Are Open!
Nominate your favorite Connecticut-made product for the 2027 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut challenge! Celebrate local innovation and craftsmanship by submitting your nomination today. Let’s showcase the best of Connecticut manufacturing!
For more information on what products qualify, check out the contest rules.
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CBIA IS FIGHTING TO MAKE CONNECTICUT A TOP STATE FOR BUSINESS, JOBS, AND ECONOMIC GROWTH. A BETTER BUSINESS CLIMATE MEANS A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR EVERYONE.