IMA LAUNCHES 2026 MAKERS MADNESS CONTEST

SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association has launched the 2026 edition of its annual “Makers Madness” contest, a bracket-style competition that allows the public to vote on what product should be named The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois.

Presented by Comcast Business, the contest celebrates products manufactured across Illinois and highlights the role manufacturers play in the state’s economy. Nominations are now open at makersmadnessil.com and will be accepted through 11:59 p.m. on March 8. Any product made in Illinois is eligible, even if the manufacturer’s headquarters is located outside the state.

Voting to narrow the field to the Top 16 products will begin March 10, followed by weekly bracket rounds. The competition will conclude with an awards ceremony on April 15 at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield, where the 2026 winner will be announced.

Illinois Manufacturers’ Association President and CEO Mark Denzler said the contest showcases the innovation and dedication of manufacturing workers across the state, noting that Illinois manufacturers produce everything from life-saving medicines and food products to electric vehicles, agricultural equipment and advanced technology used in national defense.

Manufacturing is the largest contributor of any industry to Illinois’ gross domestic product, generating more than $580 billion in annual economic investment. The sector directly employs more than 662,000 workers and supports nearly 1.8 million jobs statewide, representing close to one-third of all jobs in Illinois.

Comcast Business Regional Vice President Sean McCarthy said the partnership continues to highlight the creativity and world-class innovation of Illinois manufacturers while supporting the industry with technology and connectivity that help drive growth.

Last year’s Makers Madness champion was the Aerial Firefighting Helicopter Refill Pump, manufactured by MTH Pumps in Plano. Previous winners have included products made by Komatsu, Ingersoll Machine Tools, Rivian, Termico Technologies and Caterpillar.

A full contest timeline, including voting rounds and announcement dates, is available online at makersmadnessil.com.