Kestrel Labs Selected as a Top Finalist for the Trimble 0-60 Challenge 2025
Denver-based startup joins international cohort shaping the future of the built environment through AI and automation
DENVER (September 9, 2025) –– Kestrel Labs (“Kestrel”), a Denver-based startup leveraging artificial intelligence to modernize building code compliance, has been selected as one of 16 global finalists for the Trimble 0-60 Challenge 2025. Hosted by Trimble Ventures, the competitive program recognizes early-stage companies leveraging AI, automation and agentic technologies to solve major challenges across the architecture, engineering, construction and asset lifecycle management industries.
Finalists were selected across three connected focus areas, with Kestrel recognized in the “Connected Design” category. The startup’s platform helps architects navigate complex building regulations by embedding real-time compliance checks directly into their design tools.
“We built Kestrel to make code compliance a launchpad for better design, rather than a roadblock,” said Marian Pulford, Co-Founder and CEO of Kestrel Labs. “Our selection into the 0-60 Challenge adds momentum to that mission. We’re excited to collaborate with the Trimble ecosystem and bring practical AI tools to the people shaping our communities.”
Kestrel’s platform solves one of the most common and costly bottlenecks architects face: code compliance. Where manual checks rely on static PDFs and delayed consultant reviews, Kestrel embeds real-time regulatory feedback into design tools like Revit, giving architects immediate insight into localized zoning, egress, fire safety, and accessibility standards. Project teams can test layouts earlier, reduce rework and avoid last-minute surprises in permitting and inspection.
As part of the challenge, Kestrel is integrating Trimble Connect into its Minimum Viable Product (MVP), the first working version of its software that guides future development before a full market launch, to help architects and those reviewing permit applications at the city see and resolve any potential code issues in shared 3D model environments. Trimble Connect is a common data environment that allows information in multiple formats that is critical for design, engineering, construction, and maintenance to be stored, integrated and accessed in a single location.
“Code compliance is one of the most universal friction points in construction and design,” said Chris Peppler, VP of Platform and Product at Trimble. “Kestrel’s approach brings speed, accuracy and clarity to a process that has long needed smarter tools.”
Based in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood, a designated Enterprise Zone, Kestrel Labs is part of Colorado’s fast-growing ecosystem of AI and construction technology start-ups. The company was recently approved for the Advanced Industry Investment Tax Credit (AITC) through the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade, which offers a 35% income tax credit on qualified contributions up to $100,000.
Over the next 12 weeks, Kestrel will work alongside Trimble’s product and engineering teams to advance its platform and test new integrations. The program culminates at Demo Day during Trimble Dimensions User Conference in Las Vegas Nov. 10-12, 2025, where finalists will present their solutions to global AECO leaders and potential partners.
To learn more about Kestrel Labs’ platform, visit www.kestrellabs.com.
About Kestrel Labs
Kestrel Labs replaces manual building code compliance by automating with AI, precision, and speed, saving architects time and money with real-time intelligence in tools where they design. To learn more about Kestrel Labs, visit: www.kestrellabs.com.
###