New York City has devised a new way to pilot emerging technologies. On Wednesday, the city’s Office of Technology and Innovation launched the “NYC Smart City Testbed Program,” an initiative allowing city agencies to collaborate with companies and academic institutions on pilots that will primarily operate in public spaces…
Here’s how it works: Applications for the test program will be accepted on a rolling basis, with two projects selected per quarter, according to the OTI. Each pilot will run for six to nine months. While the pilots will be self-funded by applicants, they will have access to the city’s assets, technical support, partnership and administrative guidance through the procurement, legal and other regulatory processes. The pilots will also receive feedback from the public and the city about the practical benefit of their technology on government and residents.
