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DENVER – The Colorado Chamber of Commerce today announced that the Vertical Hydroponic Farm by FarmBox Foods has been named the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado for 2025. The award was presented that the Coolest Thing Made Awards ceremony presented by FirstBank.
The Vertical Hydroponic Farm, manufactured in Aurora, uses patented vertical farming technology inside upcycled shipping containers to maximize growing space while minimizing water and energy use. These solar-capable, climate-controlled farms enable year-round cultivation of mushrooms, leafy greens and herbs almost anywhere in the world. Each unit is designed for easy transport and stacking and is equipped with full-spectrum LED lighting, remote monitoring capabilities and advanced climate control systems.
“FarmBox Foods is doing remarkable work to transform the future of farming while helping feed communities around the world,” said Colorado Chamber President and CEO Loren Furman. “They are a powerful example of how Colorado’s manufacturing sector is driving innovation that has a global impact. Their advanced vertical farming technology makes it possible to grow fresh, healthy food almost anywhere while also addressing critical challenges such as sustainability, resource efficiency and climate resilience. We’re proud to honor FarmBox Food’s Vertical Hydroponic Farm as our 2025 winner and to recognize all our incredible finalists this year!”
The Colorado Chamber also recognized the runner-up and People’s Choice Award winner in the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado competition. The full list of winners is as follows:
Coolest Thing Made in Colorado 2025 Winner
Vertical Hydroponic Farm by FarmBox Foods
Coolest Thing Made in Colorado Runner-Up
AIEye by HapWare
People’s Choice Award
Spectra Optia Apheresis System by Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies
Watch the People’s Choice winner video.
An independent committee selected the recipients of the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado award and runner-up. Following a comprehensive review and assessment of all nominations submitted for the contest, the committee determined the finalists and ultimately selected the winner.
The People’s Choice Award winner was decided by online popular vote conducted in September, which drew more than 2,500 votes cast.
Nominations for the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado opened on June 16, 2025 and the top 10 finalists were announced in August.
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The Colorado Chamber of Commerce champions free enterprise, a healthy business environment and economic prosperity for all Coloradans. It is the only business association that works to improve the business climate for all sizes of business from a statewide, multi-industry perspective. What the Colorado Chamber accomplishes is good for all businesses, and that’s good for the state’s economy. It was created in 1965 based on the merger with the Colorado Manufacturers’ Association.