About this Event
Join us as we crown the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in California!
This is the grand finale of CMTA's statewide contest honoring the most innovative products manufactured in California, with past winners including Lockheed Martin's X-59 and Northrop Grumman's world's fastest microchip.
Expect an afternoon networking with industry leaders, a showcase of the 2026 top products, and standout speakers. Then, join us for the big reveal as we announce the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in California, plus a new award honoring the top product from a small-to-medium-sized manufacturer (SMM).
Manufacturers, suppliers, and innovation-lovers alike — you'll want to be there.
Questions? Contact Rebecca Elliott at [email protected].
Agenda
🕑: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Doors Open & Networking
🕑: 12:00 PM
Welcome Remarks
Info: CMTA's President & CEO, Lance Hastings, will kick off the event.
🕑: 12:15 PM
Buffet Lunch
Info: Sponsored by BMO.
🕑: 12:35 PM
2026 Contest Recap
Info: CMTA's President & CEO will recap this year's highlights.
🕑: 12:45 PM - 01:00 PM
Keynote Speaker
🕑: 01:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Panel Discussion
🕑: 01:30 PM - 02:00 PM
Awards Ceremony: SMM Bracket
Info: CMTA will announce the 2026 winner for the Coolest Thing Made in California, in the first-ever SMM bracket.
🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Awards Ceremony: Large Manufacturers Bracket
Info: CMTA will announce the 2026 winner for the Coolest Thing Made in California, in the Large Manufacturers Bracket.
🕑: 02:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Networking
Event venue & nearby stays
The Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection, 926 J Street, Sacramento, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.