Madness: The Coolest Thing Made in Alabama, a statewide competition now entering its second year. The online bracket-style competition celebrates Alabama’s exceptional manufacturers and the innovative products that drive the state’s economy.
“Manufacturing Madness is about more than a competition, it’s about celebrating the innovation happening in every corner of our state,” said Jon Barganier, President and CEO of Manufacture Alabama. “From advanced technologies to everyday essentials, Alabama’s manufacturers are producing world-class products that power our economy. We’re excited to bring this event back for a second year that will provide companies and communities with another opportunity to rally behind the incredible work being done right here in Alabama.”
Alabama is home to more than 4,000 manufacturing facilities dedicated to excellence and innovation that propel the state toward a more prosperous future. Last year’s Manufacturing Madness winner was the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Seeker, built by Boeing in Huntsville, whose advanced technology powers the Patriot air defense system by identifying, tracking, and defeating airborne threats while demonstrating the innovation and precision driving
Alabama manufacturing forward. Manufacturing continues to play a vital role in Alabama’s growth, creating opportunities for communities across the state. Manufacture Alabama invites the public to once again join in celebrating the state’s manufacturing industry and recognizing the fantastic products made in Alabama every day.
How it Works:
Manufacturing Madness is an online, bracket-style competition where the public will vote to determine the coolest product made in Alabama.
Key Dates and Timeline for Manufacturing Madness:
- Tuesday, February 17 – Competition began, and nominations opened at www.almanufacturingmadness.com. Any product manufactured in Alabama is eligible for submission.
- Friday, March 6 – Nomination period closes at 11:59 p.m. CT.
- Tuesday, March 10 – Friday, March 13 – Popular Vote: Online voting opens to determine the Top 16 products (voting closes at 11:59 p.m. CT on March 13).
- Monday, March 16 – The Top 16 contenders are announced and placed into the bracket competition.
- Tuesday, March 17 – Friday, March 20 – First Round: Voting determines the Top 8 products (voting closes at 11:59 p.m. CT on March 20).
- Monday, March 23 – The Top 8 contenders are announced and placed into the bracket competition.
- Tuesday, March 24 – Friday, March 27 – Second Round: Voting determines the Top 4 products (voting closes at 11:59 p.m. CT on March 27).
- Monday, March 30 – The Top 4 contenders are announced and placed into the bracket competition.
- Tuesday, March 31 – Friday, April 3 – Final Round: Voting determines the winner (voting closes at 11:59 p.m. CT on April 3).
The competition will conclude in April with a special recognition ceremony, where state leaders and industry representatives will honor the 2026 winner alongside the four finalists.
About Manufacture Alabama
Manufacture Alabama is the only trade association in the state dedicated exclusively to the competitive, legislative, regulatory and operational interests and needs of manufacturers and their partner industries and businesses. MA represents hundreds of companies – from the most recognized international corporations to small, family-owned operations – that share common interests and face similar competitive challenges. Each one is a vital component of Alabama’s economy and job base. To learn more, visit: https://www.manufacturealabama.org
