Arthrex’s TightRope® PRO Implant Wins the Florida Chamber’s 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Florida Competition

The Florida Chamber of Commerce is working to move Florida’s growing manufacturing sector from #10 in America to the Top 5 by 2030. Arthrex’s TightRope® PRO Implant was named the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Florida, earning the statewide title after competing against more than 100 products representing all 67 Florida counties.

Presented by the Florida Chamber of Commerce and FloridaCommerce, the second annual competition celebrates the manufacturers, products, and workers driving innovation and strengthening Florida’s economy.

Arthrex was announced as the winner during the Florida Chamber Foundation’s 2026 Future of Florida Forum (F3) & Florida Chamber Annual Meeting in Orlando.

“Florida manufacturers are creating the products, technology, and jobs that are helping our state compete on a global scale,” said Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Foundation. “The Coolest Thing Made in Florida competition shines a light on the innovation happening in communities across our state and the Florida job creators who make it possible. Congratulations to Arthrex on earning this year’s title and representing the strength of Florida manufacturing.”

“Florida’s manufacturing sector is a driving force behind our state’s economic success, strengthening our Target Industries and expanding high-value career opportunities for Floridians,” said Jason Mahon, Deputy Secretary of Economic Development and Chief Manufacturing Officer, FloridaCommerce. “The Coolest Thing Made in Florida competition highlights the ingenuity of Florida’s skilled manufacturers and the hard work behind their success. By celebrating innovative companies, like Arthrex, that call Florida home, we are showcasing the industries that strengthen our economy, attract investment and position our state as a leader on the world stage.”

“Being named the winner of the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Florida Competition is an incredible honor and a reflection of the passion our team brings to medical innovation every day,” said Reinhold Schmieding, President and Founder of Arthrex. “TightRope® PRO Implant represents our commitment to developing innovative solutions that help physicians improve patient care and get people back to the activities they love. We are proud to design and manufacture these products in Florida and grateful to the Florida Chamber and FloridaCommerce for recognizing the people behind the innovation.”

The 2026 finalists included Arthrex’s TightRope® PRO Implant, manufactured in Collier County, and Northrop Grumman’s E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, manufactured in St. Johns County. Together, the finalists showcase the breadth of Florida manufacturing, from advanced aerospace and defense technology to innovative medical devices.

Together, the finalists showcase the breadth of Florida manufacturing, from advanced aerospace and defense technology to innovative medical devices. This competition highlights the diversity of Florida’s manufacturing industry and the role manufacturers play in creating jobs, driving innovation, and strengthening local economies.

Learn more about the Coolest Thing Made in Florida Competition at CoolestThingMadeInFlorida.com.