2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut
Recognizing the Best of Connecticut Manufacturing
For the third year, sixteen products made by manufacturers across the state competed for the title of the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut.
Voting is now closed. Join us October 1, 2026 at the Made in Connecticut: 2026 Manufacturing Summit when we reveal the winner.
The Countdown Is On
Celebrating Connecticut Manufacturers
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.
The 2026 products include:
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
Calzone Go Live Workstation vs. Breakfast Blend
You can check out the products at the 2026 Coolest Things Made in Connecticut exhibit
at the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford starting Nov. 5.
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 Robert Klemyk (860.244.8521) 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.
Stay Connected with CBIA News Digests
The latest news and information delivered directly to your inbox.
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.