RALEIGH, N.C. – The NC Chamber launched a statewide, public-driven online contest seeking the “Coolest Thing Made in NC” to celebrate North Carolina’s cutting-edge manufacturing industry, which generates more than 18% of the gross state product and employs more than 10% of the state's workforce.

As the exclusive North Carolina affiliate for the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the NC Chamber recognizes that a strong manufacturing industry is central to the state's economic and competitive success. Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. will serve as Presenting Sponsor of the new competition, which organizers expect to become an annual tradition. The North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP) is also collaborating on this initiative as a Supporting Organization. 

“When our lives were brought to a near standstill by COVID-19, manufacturers heroically and swiftly pivoted to produce the personal protective equipment needed by front-line workers, vulnerable populations, medical facilities, and countless businesses in every county,” said NC Chamber President and CEO Gary Salamido. “Now is the time for North Carolinians to unite in honoring this vital community that has served as the backbone of our state’s economy for more than a century. As we always say at the NC Chamber: what’s made in North Carolina makes North Carolina.”

All are invited to go to coolestthingmadeinnc.com to nominate any product that is made in North Carolina (company’s headquarters do not have to be in-state). After the nominating period closes on August 21, the public will go to the site to vote on the “Coolest Thing Made in NC.”

The field of candidates will narrow with each round of voting, with the winning product being announced on October 2, National Manufacturing (MFG) Day, via Facebook Live. October is Manufacturing Month, and MFG Day, organized nationally by the NAM and The Manufacturing Institute, highlights the rewarding career opportunities of modern manufacturing.

“North Carolina has a rich manufacturing history and it plays an important part in our economy,” said Greg Plemmons, senior vice president of sales for Old Dominion Freight Line of Thomasville, North Carolina. “As a less-than-truckload carrier, we see many unique and innovative products shipped on our trucks. Promoting North Carolina goods and services is a benefit to all residents, so Old Dominion is proud to partner with the NC Chamber in a creative way to showcase the cool things made in our state.”

Join the contest’s social media campaign by following #CoolestThingMadeinNC. In addition to receiving a trophy, the winning company will be featured in various NC Chamber publications and promoted across its communications channels and statewide publicity efforts.