The Florida Chamber of Commerce has introduced a new competition, the “Coolest Thing Made in Florida,” to spotlight the state’s manufacturing industry. This initiative aims to highlight products made in Florida and their contribution to the local economy. Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, stated, “Manufacturing is a major driver of Florida’s economy, employing more than 421,000 Floridians and contributing over $68.9 billion in exports.” He added that the competition would showcase innovation and reinforce the importance of producing and exporting from Florida.
The competition adopts a bracket-style format with public voting determining the winner each year. The process begins with nominations open from February 19 to May 31, 2025. Businesses, employees, and the public can nominate products manufactured in Florida. Following this, a popular vote will narrow down nominees to the top 32 between June 17 and July 1, 2025. These finalists will be announced on July 8.
The bracket competition runs from July 15 to October 13, with stages reducing competitors from Top 32 to Top 2 through single-elimination rounds. The final round of voting takes place from September 29 to October 13. The winner will be revealed on October 28 at the Florida Future Forum and will receive statewide recognition alongside other prizes.
Florida’s manufacturing sector is central to economic growth due to its high-paying jobs and innovative output across diverse industries such as aerospace, defense, medical sciences, consumer goods, food production, and marine technologies. According to Katie Yeutter, COO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce and President of the Leadership Cabinet: “Manufacturers play an important role in diversifying Florida’s economy, and this statewide competition is an opportunity to showcase the outstanding products made here.”
Participation involves submitting product nominations online at www.coolestthingmadeinflorida.com by May 31st. Participants are encouraged to engage their networks for votes during the Popular Vote Round starting June 17th.
For further details about participating or following along with updates on social media using #CoolestThingMadeInFlorida visit www.coolestthingmadeinflorida.com.
