The Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) in the USA, in partnership with MidWestOne Bank, elected the John Deere CP770 cotton picker, manufactured in Ankeny IA USA, as winner of the 2025 “Coolest Thing Made in Iowa” contest.
“Dedicated employees at Des Moines Works have been assembling cotton pickers in Ankeny since 1950,” said Rosalind Fox, John Deere factory manager. “We will keep innovating on behalf of our customers, committed to delivering advanced cotton harvesting equipment to their fields. This award belongs to everyone who has contributed to the success of the CP770, from concept to fabrication, assembly to delivery, and everything in between. We all continue to serve farmers around the world.”
“This isn’t just a win for the CP770, it’s a win for Iowa manufacturing,” added Dejan Djordjevich, cotton business unit leader. “We take pride in assembling these green giants that harvest fiber from around the world.”
Sixty-nine products were nominated for this year’s competition, representing manufacturers from 51 Iowa communities. After an initial public voting round and a head-to-head bracket-style tournament, four finalists emerged to compete for the title. More than 93,000 votes were cast throughout the contest, demonstrating the pride Iowans have in the products made in their state.
“Congratulations to John Deere on your well-deserved recognition as one of the Coolest Things Made in Iowa winners,” said Chip Reeves, Chief Executive Officer at MidWestOne Bank. “Your product is a proud reflection of Iowa’s innovation, manufacturing strength, and the talented individuals who power the industry. As a bank committed to supporting local businesses and communities, we celebrate your achievement and the positive impact you’ve made in our state.”
“ABI has proudly supported Iowa’s manufacturing industry for more than a century, and companies like John Deere are a big part of that story,” said Nicole Crain, ABI President. “From early cotton pickers to today’s high-tech CP770, John Deere represents how Iowa manufacturers continue to evolve and innovate. Just like the industries we serve, ABI has grown and adapted, always with a focus on supporting the people, products, and progress that drive our state forward.”
The CP770 harvests over 11 acres (4.5 hectares) per hour at speeds up to 4.6 mph (7.2 kph).
