The “Coolest Thing Made in NC" contest is back

The North Carolina Chamber is searching for the coolest thing made in our state .

Why it matters: The annual "Coolest Thing Made in NC" competition spotlights North Carolina's often-overlooked manufacturing industry.

State of play: In the contest's fifth year, the Chamber will award one trophy to a small business with fewer than 100 employees and another to a company with 100-plus employees.

Zoom in: Last year's winner was Troutman-based C.R. Onsrud, which makes machinery to help manufacturers like Boeing.

• The small business award went to Burlington manufacturer Fjord, which makes products to prevent static ropes from fraying.

How it works: Nominate any North Carolina-made product online by Tuesday, Aug. 13.

• The NC Chamber will open up votes on Aug. 22. The list of contenders will narrow with each round of voting.
• Winners will be announced on Oct. 3, the day before National Manufacturing Day.