Elk Grove Village’s Mothers’ Milk Bank Honored as Finalist in Statewide “Coolest Thing Made in Illinois” Contest
Elk Grove Village, IL — April 11, 2025 — Mothers’ Milk Bank of Western Great Lakes, based in Elk Grove Village, was named a finalist in the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association’s 2025 Makers Madness contest—an annual competition celebrating the coolest products made in the state of Illinois. The Milk Bank’s unique, life-saving product—donor milk—was recognized among the top four contenders, shining a spotlight on its vital role in neonatal care and public health.
The Makers Madness contest, presented by Comcast Business, began with over 250 nominated products from across the state. After multiple rounds of public voting, the winner was announced at the Governor’s Mansion on April 9: the Aerial Firefighting Helicopter Refill Pump, manufactured by MTH Pumps in Plano.
Still, the honor of being named a finalist puts Mothers’ Milk Bank among the state’s most impactful manufacturers—and highlights the power of collaboration between healthcare and industry.
Governor JB Pritzker praised the finalists, saying, “Illinois’ world-class manufacturing industry is leading the charge as one of the top drivers of our continued economic success—and that’s thanks to the incredible innovators all across our state.”
Mark Denzler, President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, highlighted the impact of local manufacturers, “With commitment and passion, manufacturers across our state are creating products that solve real-world problems and improve lives. We applaud the men and women on our shop floors whose remarkable skills turn ideas into reality.”
Summer Kelly, Marissa Grossenbach, and Vanessa Love-Badame at the state capital.
Manufacturing a Lifesaving First Food
Pasteurized donor human milk is more than a compassionate gift—it’s a medically necessary food manufactured under strict safety and quality protocols. At the Milk Bank’s Elk Grove Village facility, every ounce of donated milk is carefully screened, pasteurized, and dispensed to infants throughout the Midwest region.
“We are thrilled that donor milk was recognized as one of The Coolest Things Made in Illinois,” said Summer Kelly, Executive Director, Milk Bank WGL. “This is a testament to the incredible generosity of our milk donors and the hard work of our dedicated employees. We are proud to celebrate the importance of the Illinois’ food manufacturing sector that nourishes us all. Congratulations to all the finalists and contestants on a spirited contest that allowed each of us to shine.”
About Mothers’ Milk Bank of Western Great Lakes
Mothers’ Milk Bank of Western Great Lakes is a nonprofit, accredited milk bank serving hospitals and families throughout Illinois, Wisconsin, and the Midwest. The milk bank is an FDA Registered Food Facility and proud member of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association. By screening, pasteurizing, and distributing donor milk, the organization supports the health and development of premature and critically ill infants, helping reduce infection risk and improving outcomes during their earliest days of life.
To view the full list of Makers Madness finalists and learn more about this year’s contest, visit: https://ima-net.org/2025-makersmadness-champion/.
