The Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) has named John Deere’s CP770 cotton picker as 2025’s Coolest Thing Made in Iowa. The award, first presented last year, honors innovative products manufactured across the state. Built in Ankeny, the CP770 stood out among 69 nominated products from 51 communities. After a public vote and bracket-style competition, four finalists remained before the CP770 claimed the title, backed by more than 93,000 votes cast statewide. ABI President Nicole Crain says, “ABI has proudly supported Iowa’s manufacturing industry for more than a century, and companies like John Deere are a big part of that story. From early cotton pickers to today’s high-tech CP770, John Deere represents how Iowa manufacturers continue to evolve, innovate, and lead. Just like the industries we serve, ABI has grown and adapted—always with a focus on supporting the people, products, and progress that drive our state forward.” Four products from the listening area were initially nominated for 2025’s award, including the Black Mamba pistol from Volquartsen Firearms in Carroll, the Arena Renegade Basketball hoop from AAI|Spalding in Jefferson, the Anchor Shock from G5 Products in Carroll, and the Puck Fire TTR15P from Puck Enterprises in Manning.
