Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota Contest: Nominations Now Open

What’s the coolest thing made in Minnesota? That’s the question a contest is once again asking this year as its popular contest returns, shining a spotlight on the innovative, surprising, and uniquely Minnesotan products made right here in our own backyard.

When it comes to products that we use every day, not just here, but around the world, the Land of 10,000 Lakes has been pretty active in inventing many of them. From iconic brands to hidden gems, the competition for which of those products is the coolest in the North Star State is heating up—and your vote could help crown the winner.

So, when you think of it, just *which* invention is the most unique thing ever made here in the Bold North? That's the question the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce is once again asking during its second-annual Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota Contest.

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Suppose you're looking to nominate a product for this year's contest. The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce says, "Any product manufactured in Minnesota is eligible for nomination and companies are not required to be members of the Minnesota Chamber," it noted. There are a few requirements, however: Nominees must have been in business for at least two years and have a product that is made in the state using a manufacturing process.

So, who won last year's inaugural Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota contest?

Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images

That honor goes to... Scotch® Magic™ Tape! That's right, the familiar product was invented by 3M back in 1961, and is now the 'preferred tape for offices, homes and schools,' the Chamber noted last year.

To get more information about this year's contest or to nominate a product, check out the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce website HERE.

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