2025 CHALLENGE

2025 CHALLENGE

2025 CHALLENGE

Emergency Response & Security

Emergency Response & Security

How might we enhance DEP’s response to storms, site emergencies, and infrastructure security risks?

Applications due August 8, 2025

Technologies may include but are not limited to solving the following use cases

Storm & Emergency Response

  • Real-time sensors to detect combined sewer overflow (CSO) discharges during rain events and to notify the public via NY Alert

  • Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Predictive Modeling & AI Tools

  • Leak detection and monitoring systems to better respond to water main break events

  • Tools to manage operation of coastal systems (e.g., standard operating procedures for resilient design, maintenance)

  • Real-time alert systems to notify DEP of events that may impact construction timelines or site conditions

Security & Resilience

  • Remote security solutions (e.g., solar-powered light towers) to monitor critical infrastructure in areas, especially offline or low-power areas

  • Tool to enhance the Harbor Survey Monitoring Program that includes external data sets to best optimize routine sampling schedules

  • Access control systems for active construction sites

  • Surveillance tools that work with existing network video recorder (NVR) systems and don't require constant internet or cellular connectivity

  • Cybersecurity Solutions for Industrial Control Systems specialized in operational technology (OT) protection that can address risks to water/wastewater infrastructure.

Information Session

Information Session

Information Session

Learn more about the Environmental Tech Lab, the application process, and hear from the NYC Department of Environmental Protection.

July 10, 1:00pm ET

Timeline

June 16, 2025

June 16, 2025

June 16, 2025

Challenge Announcement

Challenges are announced based on DEP leadership’s goals and priorities.

June 16-August 8, 2025

June 16-August 8, 2025

June 16-August 8, 2025

Open Application

Growth-stage companies apply online, detailing evidence of product-market fit.

August 2025

August 2025

August 2025

Evaluation Period

DEP and private sector experts from water and sustainability sectors review applications.

September 15-27, 2025 (NYC)

September 15-27, 2025 (NYC)

September 15-27, 2025 (NYC)

Semi-Finalist Pitch & Demo Day

Select companies are invited to New York City to pitch to a panel of private sector and DEP evaluators

Select companies receive an invite to participate in an expo-style Demo Day aimed at exposure to a wider audience at DEP 

January - March 2026

January - March 2026

January - March 2026

Proofs of Concept

Proof of Concepts are launched, where a minimal viable test is conducted with DEP.

Terms & Conditions

Please review our Terms & Conditions which govern participation in the Environmental Tech Lab.