Manufacturers: Leading the Way

There’s no better time to celebrate our state’s manufacturing community. What began in the 1880s as a sprinkling of textile mills across North Carolina’s landscape has evolved into an impressive, technologically-driven industry that generates more than 18% of our gross state product and employs more than 10% of our state’s workforce.

Our state’s manufacturers have always led the way in innovation. When our nation was brought to a near standstill by COVID-19, manufacturers heroically and swiftly pivoted to produce the equipment needed by front-line workers, vulnerable populations, hospitals and businesses.
It’s past time to shine the spotlight on one of our state’s most vital industries. To celebrate the innovation, creativity and importance of our state’s manufacturers, the NC Chamber is hosting a statewide “Coolest Thing Made in NC” contest. After a public nomination and voting process, the NC Chamber will announce which product manufactured in the Old North State is truly the “coolest thing made in NC.”
$103.59B
Total Manufacturing Output in 2018
7,792
Manufacturing Firms in NC
10.36%
Percent Share of Non-Farm Employment in NC
Data supplied by the National Association of Manufacturers.
Vote for the Coolest Thing Made in NC!
Help your nominee get to the Top 4: Get the social media graphics, e-mail templates, and other materials you need to help promote your favorite product.
About Us
The Coolest Thing Made in NC contest is run by the NC Chamber, the leading business advocacy organization in North Carolina. Our mission is to research, develop, advocate, and communicate for solutions and policies that produce a nationally competitive business climate in North Carolina.