Making New York the global leader in water, while building a sustainable future for all New Yorkers.
We provide an accelerated pathway for entrepreneurs to test their technology with the nation’s largest water and wastewater network.
In partnership with
The Environmental Tech Lab identifies innovative solutions to address complex challenges across the NYC Department of Environmental Protection:
Water supply
Deliver over 1 billion gallons of water to 9.6 million New Yorkers daily
Water and sewer operations
Operate, maintain, and protect over 7,000 miles of sanitary sewers and watermains
Wastewater treatment
Treat 1.3 billion gallons of wastewater daily
Capital construction
Manage $24 billion of construction and design projects
Air, noise, and hazardous waste
Update and enforce the Air Code to reduce emissions, and regulate hazardous waste and noise pollution
Maria Gotsch
How it works
Challenge Identification
We work with senior leaders at DEP to identify tangible, real-world challenges that could be solved with new technologies.
Global Call for Applications
Companies from around the world are invited to apply to our open challenges, detailing evidence of product-market fit.
Evaluation Period
Experts from water and sustainability sectors review applications, and semi-finalists are invited to New York City to pitch to a panel of DEP and private sector evaluators.
Proof of Concept
Challenge Finalists are selected to complete an eight-week Proof of Concept, conducting a minimally viable technology test in close collaboration with DEP. Throughout the process, participants receive direct feedback, engage with DEP staff, tour operational facilities, and present their solutions to senior leadership and the DEP Commissioner.
Pilots and Beyond
Select companies may be invited to participate in a pilot opportunity to further test their technology and demonstrate long-term commerical potential at scale.
