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HyConn is a firefighting tool introduced in Season 2 of Shark Tank. This quick-connect device aims to change how firefighters attach hoses to fire hydrants. It features a 4.5” NH thread to 6” STORZ interface, ensuring hydrant and hose compatibility.
The main advantage of HyConn is its ability to quickly and securely connect fire hoses to hydrants. This rapid connection can be made in just 20 seconds, compared to the traditional method, which can take up to two minutes.
HyConn offers reliable performance and ease of use. Its quick-connect system provides a dependable link, allowing firefighters to respond faster to fires.
The design makes it convenient for users, enabling easy attachment and detachment without the need for cumbersome hoses.
HyConn also caters to homeowners with a version designed for garden hoses. This versatility allows homeowners to benefit from the same technology, making it easy to connect and disconnect their garden hoses.
HyConn’s success lies in its ability to meet the needs of both firefighters and homeowners. It improves firefighter efficiency by providing a fast, secure, and convenient connection. Its compatibility with various hydrants and hoses ensures wide applicability.
HyConn guarantees efficient water flow and secure coupling, making firefighting tasks smoother and allowing firefighters to respond swiftly and effectively in emergencies.
HyConn eliminates the need for threading and twisting, simplifying the process of connecting fire hoses to hydrants.
It was developed to address the challenges firefighters face during emergencies, such as time constraints and difficulty connecting hoses quickly and securely.
The system has two main components: the HyConn Connector and the HyConn Adapter. The HyConn Connector attaches to the fire hose, while the HyConn Adapter is installed on the fire hydrant.
The HyConn Connector features a quick-release mechanism, allowing fast and effortless connection. The HyConn Adapter remains on existing fire hydrants and features a protective cover to prevent debris from entering the connection.
HyConn is compatible with 2.5-inch and 1.75-inch fire hoses, commonly used by firefighters. This allows seamless integration into existing firefighting equipment without requiring extensive modifications.
HyConn simplifies the connection process, increasing efficiency and reducing emergency response time. It enables firefighters to establish a water supply quickly, which is crucial for effective operations.
HyConn enhances firefighter safety, saves valuable time, and ensures a reliable and secure connection between fire hoses and hydrants.
Jeff Stroope, the founder of HyConn, was a full-time firefighter who witnessed the destruction caused by fires. Inspired to find a solution to help prevent such tragedies, Stroope founded HyConn LLC in 2009.
He developed a quick-connect system that allows firefighters to save more lives by connecting to hydrants swiftly and efficiently.
In addition to the firefighting system, Stroope designed a home version of the product for garden hoses, expanding HyConn’s potential reach. Before appearing on Shark Tank, HyConn had already gained recognition in the firefighting industry for its unique products.
HyConn’s flagship product, the HyConn Hose Connector, allows firefighters to connect hoses quickly and easily without traditional threading.
This design saves valuable time during emergencies and has the potential to improve firefighting efficiency greatly. The company also offers other firefighting equipment and accessories.
HyConn’s innovative products and proven track record attracted the attention of Shark Tank producers, leading to an opportunity to pitch their business to the panel of investors.
HyConn Shark Tank Pitch
During his Shark Tank presentation, Jeff Stroope introduced the HyConn connector as a revolutionary way to connect and disconnect fire hoses quickly.
He demonstrated how the HyConn could save valuable time during emergencies compared to standard fire hose connections.
Jeff sought $500,000 in exchange for 40% equity in his business, valuing HyConn at $1.25 million. The Sharks had mixed opinions.
Mark questioned the market potential and the eight-second time difference compared to the standard connection.
Barbara expressed doubts about the product’s cost-effectiveness for fire departments. Damon opted out, followed by Barbara.
Robert saw potential in using the product for other applications, such as oil pipelines and household hoses.
Kevin proposed a separate deal to acquire the consumer product for garden hoses, offering $500,000 in exchange for 100% ownership and a 3% royalty. Kevin and Mark engaged in a heated argument over their respective offers.
Ultimately, Jeff accepted Mark’s offer of $1.25 million for 100% company ownership, with a three-year employment contract and additional profit-sharing arrangements. Barbara acknowledged Jeff’s decision as a good move.
However, the deal with Mark ultimately fell through. Jeff disagreed with Mark’s plan to license out the design, as it went against their initial agreement for Jeff to manage the company.
Without Mark’s investment, HyConn struggled to fulfill orders and find new investors. As of 2024, HyConn’s official website is still active, but there is no option to purchase the product.
The company’s social media pages have been inactive for several years. Jeff Stroope now works as a Tool & Die Shop Manager at D&M Holding Company. It is unlikely that he will appear on Shark Tank again.
HyConn After Shark Tank
After appearing on Shark Tank, HyConn initially secured a $1.25 million investment from Mark Cuban. However, due to disagreements over the terms, the deal fell through, and both parties decided to part ways.
Despite this setback, HyConn continued independently and saw an increase in sales from its Shark Tank exposure.
However, the company struggled to meet high customer demand due to production and delivery challenges, which took years to resolve by finding a new investor.
HyConn’s website remains open but currently offers no products for purchase. Founder Jeff Stroope, now working as a Tool & Die Shop Manager, is unavailable for comment.
The company’s social media activity halted, with the last post on Facebook in April 2019.
Official reports on HyConn’s net worth are unavailable, but it is estimated to be around $5 million, considering its Shark Tank appearance and customer interactions.
After the show, HyConn rebranded to “JAH Enterprises” and shifted focus from firefighting applications to industrial markets, developing quick connectors for various industries.
The current status of JAH Enterprises is uncertain as the company’s online presence has significantly diminished.
Despite these challenges, HyConn’s Shark Tank appearance highlighted its innovative product’s potential and drew investor interest. However, the subsequent changes and difficulties have contributed to its uncertain market status.
HyConn is no longer in business. Despite gaining initial traction and securing purchase orders from four fire departments after appearing on Shark Tank in 2011, disagreements over terms with Mark Cuban led to the deal’s collapse.
HyConn later received investments from 101 Ventures and Innovate Arkansas, but details of these deals remain unclear.
The company’s online presence declined in 2019, and its e-commerce website has shut down. HyConn’s inability to sell its products to the government is the result of budget constraints, which has left it with an estimated worth of $0 and a non-operational status.
HyConn’s current net worth is estimated to be $0 due to its uncertain status. The company’s valuation was $1.25 million after Mark Cuban’s initial offer on Shark Tank.
