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.
Presented in Partnership with
In this single-elimination, bracket-style challenge, the public votes on what their choice for the Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut.
Sixteen Connecticut manufacturers’ products will compete head-to-head to determine this year’s Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut, and the winner will be announced on October 1 at the Made in Connecticut: Manufacturing Summit.
Voting opens August 20.
2026 Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut Tournament Bracket
Coolest Thing Made in Connecticut 2026 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
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.
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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.