We're honored to feature the first founder Antler US ever invested in - Manuel Schönfeld, founder & CEO of PowerX - on this episode of Early Days. Today, PowerX builds hardware-enabled AI sensors that reduce energy waste. PowerX has installed thousands of hardware devices that save energy, water, and carbon emissions in over 25 countries, and is serving some of the world’s leading brands including McDonalds and Comcast.
But when Manu joined our inaugural New York City Residency in late 2019, he had recently left McKinsey (where he'd advised governments and private sector on innovative energy solutions) and was just starting to explore different ways he could innovate in the hydrogen economy. (He actually built a hydrogen-powered scooter over the course of the Residency.)
Manu describes the process (and pain points) of parlaying his research into building product for actual customers, how he navigated PowerX through the 2020-2021 supply chain crisis, and his approach to VC fundraising. Manu's personal background and his story of building PowerX are both remarkable; this episode provides equal parts inspiration and concrete advice for founders determined to solve the world's most pressing challenges.
Follow Manu directly on LinkedIn and Twitter @ManuelSchonfeld.
Want to stay updated on PowerX? You can learn more about PowerX's mission to help businesses waste less energy and money on LinkedIn and Twitter @ThisIsPowerX.
If you're ready to build your next company in Antler's studios like Manu did, our next Residency launches in Austin, Boulder & NYC this October 2023 - drop into an upcoming AMA to learn more or check us out at antler.co