Nominations have opened for the second annual Coolest Thing Made in New Jersey competition, which highlights products made within the state. The event is presented by Withum and organized through a partnership between the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) and the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP) under their Manufacturing Counts initiative.
The competition seeks to recognize products that demonstrate creativity, impact, or craftsmanship. Last year’s contest saw nearly 40,000 votes across four rounds before Geared Power was awarded for its BioGuard UVC mask.
This year’s nomination period runs until March 20. Products can be nominated online as long as they comply with established rules.
“We are thrilled to bring the momentum of this competition back for a second year and excited to welcome Withum as our presenting sponsor this year,” said NJBIA President and CEO Michele Siekerka. “In seeking out the Coolest Thing Made in New Jersey, we are bringing well-deserved attention to the many companies and their creations that make the Garden State one of the greatest manufacturing states in the nation.”
“It is our honor to shine a spotlight on the products that inspire innovation, power our industries and help improve our everyday life here in New Jersey,” said NJMEP CEO Peter Connolly. “We look forward to repeating the tremendous engagement we saw in the inaugural year of this competition to bring attention to our deserving candidates.”
“New Jersey’s manufacturing sector reflects the innovation, resilience and craftsmanship that define our state,” said Matt Walsh, Partner, Withum Practice Leader – Industrial and Consumer Products. “Withum has deep roots in New Jersey, and we value our long‑standing relationship with NJBIA and the work they do to elevate this essential industry. We’re proud to support an initiative that shines a light on the companies and products driving growth and opportunity across the state.”
Voting will occur over four rounds: March 24-30 for all nominees; April 1-6 for the top 16; April 8-13 for top eight; with final voting from April 15-20 among four finalists. The winner will be announced at an event at the Statehouse on May 21, pending legislative scheduling.
The winning product will receive an award along with coverage in both New Jersey Business Magazine and Manufacturing Matters Magazine.
Manufacturing Counts was launched by NJBIA and NJMEP in 2022 to strengthen support for manufacturers statewide.
NJBIA serves as one of America’s largest statewide employer associations representing private-sector employers throughout New Jersey across various sectors including manufacturing. The association offers advocacy, information services, cost-saving benefits, fosters partnerships among businesses, government entities, academic institutions, advances member competitiveness according to its official website, and is led by president Michele Siekerka as noted on its website.