Four local companies have landed on the Iowa Association of Business and Industry’s (ABI) nominee list for the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Iowa. Now in its second year, the contest was created to recognize the state’s diverse and vibrant manufacturing sector. ABI President Nicole Crain says, “Manufacturing drives Iowa’s economy in every corner of our state. The Coolest Thing Made in Iowa contest is a chance to celebrate the creativity and craftsmanship of Iowa manufacturers. We’re excited to highlight the people, the products, and the communities — rural and urban — that make Iowa’s manufacturing industry strong.” Making the list is G5 Products of Carroll and their Anchor Shock, an anchoring system for boats that reduces jostling when anchored in rough waters or while docked. Carroll’s Volquartsen Firearms made the list with its Black Mamba 22 LR target pistol, which is used by competitive shooters and enthusiasts around the world. Puck Enterprises of Manning was nominated for the Puck Fire TTR15P, a mobile hose spool that allows firefighters to quickly deploy and collect large water supply hoses. The final local company to be nominated is AAI/Spalding of Jefferson with the Arena Renegade Basketball Hoop, which can be found on courts at all levels of play, including the NBA and NCAA. Public voting is open now at www.coolestthingia.com through Wednesday, May 7. The public can select four of their favorites from the dozens of Iowa-made products on the list. After May 7, the top 16 products will compete in a bracket-style tournament for 2025’s title of “Coolest Thing Made in Iowa.” Last year’s winner was Vermeer of Pella for its ZR5-1200 self-propelled baler. Dobson Pipe Organ Builders of Lake City advanced to the finals in the 2024 contest.
Four Locally-Made Products Nominated For ABI’s 2025 Coolest Thing Made In Iowa
