The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) has launched the third round of its Innovation Studio, an open call for start-ups to pilot AI-powered technologies that enhance how NYC monitors, maintains, and manages its streets. The open call is being carried out in partnership with Newlab, a venture platform for technology start-ups.

The AI Innovation Studio is part of a broader NYC effort to deploy responsibly AI for public benefit. The programme’s goal is 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 New York City operations.

The programme invites start-ups to co-develop and deploy real-world pilots addressing urban infrastructure and safety challenges. Selected companies will receive pilot-design support, a deployment stipend, and access to Newlab’s innovation network and NYC DOT’s operational expertise. Pilots will run from October 2025 to January 2026.

Start-ups can apply to one of four pilot tracks:

• Speed Limit Sign Monitoring – Automating the detection and assessment of missing, obscured, or damaged signs to support enforcement and safety operations.
• Street-light Outage Detection – Replacing passive 311 complaint-based systems with real-time outage detection tools to ensure reliable night-time visibility.
• Construction Permit Compliance – Monitoring job sites to validate adherence to permitted activity, footprint, and hours of operation.
• Open Category – A flexible track for AI solutions supporting other NYC DOT goals, such as predictive maintenance, near-miss incident detection, bike lane network usage, and toll evasion enforcement.

Solutions should demonstrate a clear path to deployment and uphold principles of transparency, privacy, and fairness. Start-ups from adjacent industries with transferable technology are encouraged to apply.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with Newlab on the DOT Innovation Studio for our third consecutive year to develop new urban transportation solutions,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “By testing emerging technologies that can improve real-time transportation management across NYC, we can advance our commitment toward safer, more efficient streets and welcoming public spaces.”

“NYC DOT continues to lead in using new technologies to improve urban infrastructure,” said David Belt, Newlab CEO. “We’re proud to build on our ongoing partnership to support breakthrough startups as they tackle some of the most urgent challenges facing New York City’s streets.”