Bagged animal health IV fluids win 2026 ‘Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska’ contest

La VISTA — Animal health IV fluids made in Grand Island took home this year’s title of “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska.” 

After weeks of buildup and tens of thousands of votes, the winning product, by Nova-Tech Inc., was revealed Thursday during the final hours of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry Manufacturing Summit in La Vista.

The annual bracket-style tourney began last month with 16 products narrowed down from a large pool of nominees that had been submitted by supporters and workers. The multiphase contest is aimed at highlighting the state’s manufacturing industry during Manufacturing Month.

All early contenders — including manufacturers of an airboat, popcorn and Nebraska license plates — were invited to showcase their products during the summit. 

This year’s champ of the annual contest that started in 2022 was kept a secret until the summit. Established in 1988, Nova-Tech uses sterile manufacturing processes. Its IV fluids offer a balance of electrolytes to support rehydration and fluid replacement for all animals.

Teresa Grabowski, president and co-owner, said the win highlights the work of employees. “We’re incredibly proud to operate Nova-Tech out of Grand Island, Nebraska, where it all started and be part of Nebraska’s incredible and thriving manufacturing industry,” she said.

The animal IV products join past winners: a Grand Island-produced combine series by Case IH (2025), Valley Irrigation’s center pivot irrigation machine (2024), Rocket Mobility’s all-terrain tracked wheelchair made in Columbus (2023) and Kawasaki’s subway car built in Lincoln to run on the rail tracks of New York City (2022). 

The summit featured a talk from Joseph Young, chamber president and chief executive, networking opportunities and workshop topics such as the datacenter ecosystem and an update on state manufacturing policies. 

Also at the summit, Royal Engineered Composites of Minden was recognized as the 2026 Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year. The award by the chamber recognizes a state manufacturer that implements innovative ways to conduct business urging  products, processes, technologies and other strategies.

Royal was founded in Minden, a town of about 3,000, more than 75 years ago. With a worldwide reach, the company specializes in the commercial and defense aerospace industry. Customers include Boeing, Northrop Grumman and Bell Helicopter. 

In April, Royal announced a $5 million investment in its Minden facility, including a 23,500-square-foot expansion and $2 million in advanced manufacturing equipment to enhance in-house production and inspection of large aerospace components.