John Deere launches ‘Building America’ excavator contest

Illinois-based John Deere Co. has launched its “Building America” excavator contest at the 2026 ConExpo-Con/Agg, March 3-7, 2026, in Las Vegas.

The competition, inspired by the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, invites participants to share how they are helping build their communities today and how they would use a new midsize excavator to build for tomorrow, John Deere says.

“Every day across the country, contractors and operators are doing the hard, sometimes unseen work that keeps our communities connected and moving forward,” Amy Asselin, global marketing manager, excavators at John Deere, says. “The Building America Excavator Contest is our way of recognizing their contributions, craftsmanship and noteworthy impact on America. Their stories and pride deserve to be celebrated, and we’re beyond excited to honor a deserving participant with one of our new generation midsize excavator models.”

Eligible participants are encouraged to submit a short video showcasing their business, their current use of construction equipment on a project and their vision for future projects that strengthen communities through April 30, 2026. Submissions will be reviewed and evaluated based on contest criteria. Finalists will be selected by John Deere and announced on July 4.

A public voting period will be opened from Aug. 17-31 to help determine the winner, which will be announced Sept. 8.

The contest is open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. and the District of Columbia who are 18 years of age or older at the time of entry. Eligible participants must own or be employed by a qualifying business that, as of March 2, 2026, owns at least one excavator of any brand.

To enter the Building America Excavator Contest, or to read the full contest rules and eligibility, visit www.JohnDeereExcavatorContest.com.