The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with BMO, has announced the final four products in its annual competition, “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota.” After a month of voting which eliminated over 60 contenders, these four finalists now compete for the title.
Doug Loon, president and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, commented on the achievement of reaching the top four: “These products have captured the imagination of voters and put a spotlight on the creativity, craftsmanship and ingenuity that define Minnesota manufacturing.” The winner of this year’s competition will be revealed on October 7, 2025.
Meet the Finalists
The products competing for the coveted title showcase a blend of innovation and practicality.
The first finalist is the SR Series G7+ Aircraft from Cirrus Aircraft, built in Duluth. This single-engine aircraft is notable for featuring the world’s first FAA-approved autonomous emergency landing system, an advancement that emphasizes safety and innovation in aviation.
Next is the MRZR, an all-terrain military vehicle manufactured by Polaris in Roseau. This versatile vehicle is designed for rugged conditions and includes military modifications such as infrared and blackout lighting, enabling it to perform effectively in various environments.
Another finalist is the Trackchair, an all-terrain wheelchair produced by ATZ in Marshall. Designed to navigate through challenging terrains like sand and snow, the Trackchair was created by Tim Swenson, who initially built the chair to help his son access the outdoors. Its unique design allows it to traverse obstacles, making it a vital tool for outdoor enthusiasts with mobility challenges.
Finally, the Vistabule Teardrop Trailer from a family-run business in St. Paul rounds out the finalists. Weighing 1,400 pounds, this luxury camper features a queen-size sleeping area and a galley kitchen, catering to the needs of modern adventurers seeking comfort on the road.
A Celebration of Minnesota Manufacturing
Loon emphasized that the competition has evolved into more than just a contest, stating, “Each matchup now feels less like a contest and more like a celebration of what our state can build.” This sentiment reflects the pride Minnesota residents feel for their local manufacturers and the innovative products they create.
Last year’s inaugural competition highlighted products such as a man-made floating wetland and an Arctic Cat snowmobile, with Scotch Magic Tape from 3M Co. claiming the top spot. The upcoming announcement of this year’s winner is highly anticipated, as it not only recognizes outstanding manufacturing achievements but also fosters community engagement and pride in local industries.
Voting for this year’s finalists is currently open and will close at 17:00 on Sunday. Interested participants can cast their votes at the official website.
The “Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota” competition continues to spotlight the diverse and creative manufacturing landscape in the state, showcasing products that reflect the innovative spirit of Minnesota.
