The John Deere CP770 cotton picker, manufactured in Ankeny, has emerged as winner of the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Iowa competition.
“Dedicated employees at Des Moines Works have been assembling cotton pickers in Ankeny since 1950,” said Rosalind Fox, John Deere factory manager. “We will forever innovate on behalf of our customers, committed to delivering the world’s most advanced cotton harvesting equipment to their fields…We all continue to push boundaries to better serve farmers around the world.”
The CP770 cotton picker was one of 69 products nominated for this year’s competition, which spanned 51 Iowa communities and garnered more than 93,000 votes.
“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, innovate, and lead.”
The Iowa Association of Business and Industry, in partnership with MidWestOne Bank, sponsored the competition, now in its second year.
“Congratulations to John Deere on your well-deserved recognition as one of the Coolest Things Made in Iowa winners,” said Chip Reeves, CEO of MidWestOne. “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.”
The winner was announced June 11 during ABI’s Taking Care of Business Conference in Council Bluffs.
