03/12/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 03/12/2026 08:43
Voting has officially begun in the Illinois Manufacturers' Association's annual Makers Madness contest to determine The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois.
This statewide competition celebrates the creativity, innovation, and manufacturing excellence that power Illinois' economy. Each year, products made across the state-from advanced technology to everyday essentials-compete for the title in a bracket-style tournament decided entirely by public vote.
The contest shines a spotlight on the thousands of manufacturers that call Illinois home and the skilled workers behind the products that impact industries around the world. One of the products in the running this year is made in the Quad Cities, which Leader McCombie is proud to call out for her corner of the state: The John Deere Combine made in East Moline.
Voting is now open, and residents can vote for their favorite product here: Makers Madness - The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois. This round of voting runs through 11:59 p.m. on March 22.