The Georgia Chamber of Commerce announced today the Top 8 finalists in the second annual Coolest Thing Made in Georgia competition, presented by Synovus, now merged with Pinnacle Financial Partners. After thousands of votes from across the country and around the world, only eight Georgia-made products remain in the bracket-style competition celebrating the innovation, craftsmanship, and manufacturing excellence that power Georgia's economy.

The Top 8 products advancing to Round 3 are:

• Blue Ops Variant 7
• BrightFarms Greenhouse-Grown Leafy Greens
• Hot Hands
• TifTuf Drought Tolerant Bermudagrass
• Claxton Fruit Cake
• Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food
• Blue Bird Vision Electric School Bus
• Oyster Bamboo Fly Rods

Public voting for the Top 8 round is now open and will close Thursday, July 9, at 9:00 AM. Georgians can cast their votes once per day, per device, during each round by visiting   CoolestThingMadeInGA.com.

Maggie Malcolm, Investor Engagement Manager and Coolest Thing Made in Georgia Program Lead, Georgia Chamber of Commerce said:

“One of the most rewarding parts of this year's competition has been seeing businesses of all sizes represented. From small businesses to global manufacturers, each competitor highlights the innovation, craftsmanship, and ingenuity that make Georgia a leader in manufacturing. Round 3 features an outstanding group of competitors representing industries ranging from agriculture and defense to food, consumer goods, and advanced manufacturing. We're excited to see which one will ultimately earn the title of the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Georgia.”

Charlie Clark, State Head of Georgia Banking, Pinnacle Financial Partners said:

"Georgia has always been a place where people dream big, take risks and build great things. This competition shines a spotlight on the innovators, entrepreneurs and manufacturers helping move our state forward. Pinnacle is honored to support their efforts and celebrate the impact they're making in communities across Georgia every day."

The competition will continue with the Top 4 beginning July 10, followed by the championship round. The winning product will be announced during the Georgia Chamber Congressional Luncheon on August 5.

To view the bracket and vote for your favorite Georgia-made product, visit CoolestThingMadeInGA.com.