NYC kicks off second startup competition to modernize building regulations

New York City’s Buildings Tech Lab this week opened applications for its second annual technology competition, allowing startups to present innovative solutions and tools for a chance to help modernize the regulation process for the city’s buildings.

A public-private partnership between the New York City Department of Buildings and the Partnership Fund for New York City, the lab is seeking solutions through the competition to modernize internal department workflows — such as case-tracking and code updates with flexible, data-driven systems that integrate easily with existing platforms — and that can help the department’s inspectors and staff improve safety, mobility and efficiency on the job.

Companies chosen for the program will participate in a six-month pilot broken into two phases. Phase 1 will focus on validating the technology in the department’s operational environment, while Phase 2 will evaluate cost and scalability for broader deployment, the announcement explains. This phased approach provides the startups with a clear pathway to demonstrate both the effectiveness and value of their solutions while receiving feedback from staff.

The Buildings Tech Lab was launched in 2024 and is part of the Partnership Fund for New York City’s Technology in the Public Interest strategy, which aims to invest in companies and programs that advance the application of new technologies to address city challenges. Along with the Buildings Tech Lab, the Partnership Fund also operates the Transit Tech Lab, which kicked off in 2018 and allows companies to work with area transportation agencies, such as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, to pilot tech solutions for improving a number of operational and logistical functions of transportation.

“After seeing firsthand how the impressive technologies of the first cohort of companies could boost our enforcement operations, cut wait times, and improve our service for New Yorkers, we were more than excited to run it back with a second annual innovation competition,” Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo said in the announcement.

“The public-private collaboration of the Buildings Tech Lab, created with the support of the Partnership Fund for New York City, is helping us lay the groundwork for a new era at DOB with even more proactive programs to protect public safety, preserve quality of life, and promote compliant development around the city,” he added.

Applications are due by Oct. 24. For support during the application process, the Buildings Tech Lab will host a virtual information session with department staff and leadership on Oct. 10. The session will highlight the benefits of participating in the program and provide practical guidance to help strengthen proposals.