Nominations are now being accepted for the second annual Coolest Thing Made in New Jersey competition, presented this year by Withum and powered by NJBIA and the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP) through their Manufacturing Counts partnership.
The Coolest Thing Made in New Jersey competition invites makers of New Jersey-made products to be judged on their creativity, impact, or craftsmanship.
“We are thrilled to bring the momentum of this competition back for a second year and excited to welcome Withum as our presenting sponsor this year,” said NJBIA President and CEO Michele Siekerka. “In seeking out the Coolest Thing Made in New Jersey, we are bringing well-deserved attention to the many companies and their creations that make the Garden State one of the greatest manufacturing states in the nation.”
Last year, nearly 40,000 votes were cast online over four rounds of competition before New Jersey company Geared Power won for its innovative BioGuard UVC mask.
Nominations for this year’s competition are being accepted from now until March 20.
To nominate a New Jersey-made product, click here.
“It is our honor to shine a spotlight on the products that inspire innovation, power our industries and help improve our everyday life here in New Jersey,” said NJMEP CEO Peter Connolly. “We look forward to repeating the tremendous engagement we saw in the inaugural year of this competition to bring attention to our deserving candidates.”
“New Jersey’s manufacturing sector reflects the innovation, resilience and craftsmanship that define our state,” said Matt Walsh, Partner, Withum Practice Leader – Industrial and Consumer Products. “Withum has deep roots in New Jersey, and we value our long‑standing relationship with NJBIA and the work they do to elevate this essential industry. We’re proud to support an initiative that shines a light on the companies and products driving growth and opportunity across the state.”
Anyone can nominate products, as long as they comply with the competition rules found here.
Voting rounds will take place as follows:
- Round 1 – Voting on all nominated products: March 24-30
- Round 2 – Top 16: April 1-6
- Round 3 – Top 8: April 8-13
- Final Round – Top 4: April 15-20
The BioGuard UVC™, a specialized PPE mask that utilizes UVC technology to neutralize viruses at the source, was named the “Coolest Thing Made in New Jersey” in 2025. Produced by Geared Power in Wayne, the mask is designed to prevent the spread of respiratory healthcare-associated infections in medical settings.