Newlab and NYC DOT Seek AI Startups for Transportation Safety Pilots

Newlab and the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) have launched the third round of the NYC DOT Innovation Studio, an open call for AI startups to pilot technologies aimed at enhancing street-level transportation safety and infrastructure. Announced in a press release, the program invites startups to co-develop and deploy real-world pilots addressing critical urban infrastructure and safety challenges.

Selected startups will receive pilot-design support, a deployment stipend, and access to Newlab's innovation network and NYC DOT's operational expertise. The pilots are scheduled to run from October 2025 through January 2026. The initiative aims to demonstrate how AI and advanced sensing technologies can close street-level data gaps, reduce response times, and improve the safety, equity, and efficiency of city operations.

Startups can apply to one of four pilot tracks: Speed Limit Sign Monitoring, Streetlight Outage Detection, Construction Permit Compliance, and an Open Category for other AI solutions supporting NYC DOT goals. Applications are open until August 15, 2025, with startup selection occurring in September 2025.