Celebrating Innovation and Leadership at the 8th Annual Fourth Revolution Awards
On March 6, mHUB hosted the 8th Annual Fourth Revolution Awards, honoring trailblazers shaping the future of hardtech and manufacturing in the Midwest. This prestigious event brought together hundreds of professionals, innovators, and industry leaders to recognize excellence, technological advancement, and social impact in manufacturing.
Honoring the Midwest’s Best
The Fourth Revolution Awards highlight the achievements of individuals and organizations driving innovation and growth in the manufacturing sector. With nearly 100 submissions across five judged categories, completing the awards process required weeks of evaluation by expert judges from leading corporations, innovators, and academic institutions.
This year featured five competitive awards and three honorary recognitions. The winners represent a diverse group of changemakers, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible within manufacturing and hardtech.
2025 Fourth Revolution Award Winners
Judged Categories
Community Empowerment Award
Winner: P33
Awarded for its commitment to transforming Chicago and Illinois into a global technology hub particularly around quantum, sustainable computing, and entrepreneurship.
Excellence in Engineering Award
Winner: Herbie Kirn of Articulate Labs
Acknowledged for his contributions to Articulate Labs, where he is redefining automation and biometrics in physical therapy.
Innovation of the Year
Winner: Niron Magnetics
Celebrated for pioneering the world’s first high-performance, rare-earth-free Iron Nitride permanent magnets, a breakthrough in sustainable manufacturing and magnet technology.
Small & Medium-Sized Manufacturer of the Year
Winner: TCCI Manufacturing
Recognized for cutting-edge engineering and a commitment to community since the 1980s.
Rising Star Award
Winner: AQUA Cultured Foods
Acknowledged as one of the hottest up and coming startups to emerge from the region.
Honorary Awards
Manufacturer of the YearWinner: Pella Corporation
For its century-long commitment to innovation, AI-driven manufacturing processes, and $35 million in local community investments.
Corporate ChampionWinner: Intersect Illinois
For securing $9.3 billion in investments and creating over 20,000 jobs to strengthen Illinois’ manufacturing ecosystem.
4REV ChampionWinner: Michael Fassnacht
Recognized for advancing Chicago’s business ecosystem and championing economic and cultural development.
A Night of Connection and Celebration
The evening kicked off with cocktails and appetizers, followed by remarks and the highly anticipated award announcements. After recognizing the outstanding achievements of the winners, attendees spent the remaining hours networking and sharing insights with peers.
Beyond the awards, the night also marked the conclusion of the mHUB HardTech Summit, a showcase of cutting-edge advancements, including 30+ startup pitches, expert panels, and 40 product demonstrations.
Elevating Midwest Manufacturing
The Fourth Industrial Revolution, centered on advancements such as AI, automation, and sustainability, is transforming global manufacturing. The Fourth Revolution Awards play a pivotal role in fostering innovation and collaboration within the Midwest, ensuring the region continues to lead on the global stage.
Join Us Next Year!
The Fourth Revolution Awards will return in 2026, continuing to celebrate the hardtech pioneers shaping the industry. Subscribe to mHUB’s newsletter for updates, and visit mHUB’s website to explore upcoming events, partnerships, and ways to engage with this thriving ecosystem.
Together, we’re building the future of manufacturing. Will you be part of the revolution?
Thanks to mHUB's Event Sponsors:
