Jack MacDonnell: You've got to think bigger

Starting your own business may be a daunting task but equal amounts of passion, determination and hard work can propel an entrepreneur’s vision into a profitable venture. Jack MacDonnell, founder of Enermotion has been able to achieve his goals with years of perseverance and determination. MacDonnell incorporated his company in 2008 and built the first Enermotion prototype in 2009. We recently met Jack MacDonnell and he shared information about Enermotion’s technology, entrepreneurship, and his vision for the company.

Tell us about Enermotion and HYPER technology:

Enermotion is a clean technology company that aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Our technology is a waste heat recovery technology. We are looking to improve energy efficiency, specifically in internal combustion engines with over-the-road heavy duty trucks. Enermotion Inc.’s “HYPER” unit is able to supply emission-free cooling and heating to the truck’s cab by using the expelled energy from the exhaust of diesel engines that otherwise goes to waste. HYPER improves fuel efficiency and eliminates pollution caused by the exhaust emitted from idling during rest stops. HYPER works while the vehicle is in motion too. HYPER is the first technology of its kind, we have overcome the technological challenges and are preparing to launch commercially with strategic partners in the very near future.

Enermotion’s technology is patented in Canada, United States, Europe, China, and Australia. In partnership with Linamar Corporation we assembled 10 units on an assembly line last year, and will be gearing up to enter full production mode with them and our commercial partner later in the year. We will continue evolving the HYPER technology for other product and market applications with other strategic commercial partners.

What do you think about the startup industry in Canada?

There is very good support for the startup community in Canada. There are excellent funding programs offered by the federal and provincial governments. Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) provided a $1.3 million grant that we unlocked over a 6 year period. Ontario Centers of Excellence (OCE) invested in our company just over three years ago through their Special Energy Fund. As an entrepreneur I don’t leave any stone unturned; I look at every funding program and how to maximize its return. These programs help leverage private capital for start ups in Canada and should be explored.  

Why did you choose Caledon as a place to establish your business?

Enermotion’s facility covers an 8000 square foot area with inside parking for two Class 8 heavy trucks, and our location in Bolton offers proximity to existing and potential customers, the GTA, transportation facilities, machine shops, and professional services. We have been in Bolton for the last 9 years, and it’s a good central location for the employees to commute from home and back. Our facility is close to several trucking and transportation logistics companies and that’s an advantage for us. I would like to see an innovation hub in Bolton, similar to MaRS Discovery District in Toronto to encourage a start up eco-system directly in this area.

Tell us about your journey as an entrepreneur:

There are a lot of personal sacrifices involved when you are an entrepreneur but you have to start somewhere. It’s not an easy road but you make it happen. I did not seek investment from any family or friends until I completed my first prototype and knew we had market potential. As an entrepreneur I have to raise money; I am always in the fundraising mode, delivering pitches to investors and reaching out to potential partners frequently. It’s very important to have a supportive group of family and friends when you are an entrepreneur - you will lean on them, and they will help keep you grounded as well. Personally I’m very competitive and I like to win, but I do this with 100% integrity and honesty.

What is your vision for Enermotion?

My vision is to see every class 8 truck around the world have HYPER installed to reduce fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. We can reduce 11 million tons of carbon dioxide annually realizing this vision.

Fun fact: I was interviewed by Donald Trump Jr couple of years ago for his television program - who would have guessed his Dad would become President of the United States!