Coolest Thing Made in Oregon contest narrows to four semifinalists

Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) --- The field of competitors in the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Oregon contest has been narrowed to four semifinalists after the second round of voting concluded yesterday.

The annual competition, presented by Oregon Business & Industry, is currently in its fourth year.

The four remaining products in the contest are PNW Assistive Technology's Wayfinder Ride-On Toys from Eugene, Tillamook's Sharp Cheddar Cheese from Tillamook, Tucker Sno-Cat's Model 1600 Over Snow Vehicle from Medford and Work Sharp's RMX Reverse Tanto Folding Knife from Ashland.

Voting for the contest began two weeks ago with 16 finalists representing products manufactured across the state, from Ashland to Portland. A panel selected the original field from scores of products nominated by Oregonians during the spring and summer.

Members of the public are casting votes on the Oregon Business & Industry website during the semifinal round to narrow the remaining field to two products. Voting for this round will close on Monday, Oct. 12.

The winner of the 2026 contest will be announced Oct. 28 at OBI's annual Vision Oregon Event in Portland.