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Next week, the NAM will launch the Route 250 Initiative proof of concept at the Circleville Pumpkin Show in Ohio that runs from Oct. 16 to 19. It is a test event to keep manufacturing and the creative economy at the forefront of the national conversation and improve perceptions about the industry and the country.

The initiative aims to inspire civic pride, acts of service and broader public support for manufacturing and the creative economy as America gears up to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which will occur in 2026.

Why it matters: With a growing need to boost confidence in the future of America, with American pride at near-record lows, this initiative aims to show how businesses play a pivotal role in the American Dream.

The details: The Route 250 Diner, a retro-themed pop-up, will offer stories of local creators and community heroes, interactive experiences and fall-themed treats to the more than 400,000 attendees at one of Ohio’s largest public gatherings.

• Visitors will receive a “menu” of suggested acts of service they can commit to, such as taking care of others, showing gratitude or getting creative, to get their free fall snack.
• After exploring the diner and its décor highlighting the creator stories, guests will get a “guest slip” connecting them to service opportunities.
• Conversation starters will encourage guests to ask each other what they’re doing to make a difference for their communities, while giveaway materials will showcase companies and organizations that are strengthening their communities and the country.

The partners: The proof of concept is made possible by a grant from Stand Together Trust, and it is backed by organizations like Snap-on Tools, the J.M. Smucker Company, the National Restaurant Association, the International Franchise Association, The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, the Bill of Rights Institute and more.

Zoom out: America’s Semiquincentennial is gearing up to be the largest commemoration of the country in U.S. history, with a congressionally chartered nonpartisan organization, America 250, working to involve every American in the 250th anniversary celebration of the United States.

The NAM’s track record: Last year, the NAM and the Manufacturing Institute’s Creators Wanted Tour, which built excitement about modern manufacturing careers, hit record-breaking results in Circleville, setting the stage for this new campaign to shift sentiments about the industry and the country.

The bottom line: “The Route 250 proof of concept is a strategic effort to showcase creators’ essential roles in America’s story,” said Chrys Kefalas, managing vice president of brand strategy. “America is strong when manufacturing is strong, and we are taking the lead to bolster our industry and country ahead of 2026.”