ShotHawk: AI-Powered Safety System Garners Recognition and Funding
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ShotHawk, a Chicago-based startup developing an AI-driven safety system for active shooter situations, is rapidly gaining attention and support. Founded by Northwestern University alumni, teh company’s innovative technology and recent accolades position it as a rising force in the public safety sector.
Addressing the Urgent Need for Enhanced Safety Measures
Active shooter events pose a notable threat to communities nationwide. Conventional security measures often prove insufficient in mitigating these risks. ShotHawk addresses this challenge with its “Spot” technology, which leverages artificial intelligence to detect potential threats and automatically deploy a non-lethal deterrent – pepper gel – to neutralize attackers while minimizing harm to bystanders. This approach aims to provide a crucial window of prospect for law enforcement to intervene and secure the scene.
Recent Achievements and Funding
ShotHawk’s innovative approach has earned the company several prestigious recognitions. In December 2025, Ohm Vyas, co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of ShotHawk, was named to Chicago Inno’s 2025 “Under 25” list, celebrating young innovators impacting the Chicago region. This honor acknowledges vyas’s leadership and the potential of ShotHawk’s technology.
Further validating its potential, ShotHawk was selected for TechCrunch’s 2025 Startup Battlefield 200, a highly competitive showcase of promising early-stage startups. The company has also secured crucial funding to advance its deployment. In December 2024, ShotHawk received $75,000 from the Illinois Science and Technology Coalition to deploy 30 systems, demonstrating confidence in its ability to deliver tangible safety improvements.
How ShotHawk’s Technology Works
ShotHawk’s Spot system utilizes a network of sensors and AI algorithms to identify potential threats in real-time. Upon detecting a potential active shooter,the system automatically deploys a precisely aimed burst of pepper gel. This non-lethal deterrent incapacitates the attacker, providing critical time for first responders to arrive and secure the area. The system is designed to be integrated into existing security infrastructure,offering a layered approach to safety.
Company Overview
According to Craft, ShotHawk currently employs 1 person and operates from a single location. While a relatively small team, the company’s impact and growth trajectory suggest significant potential for expansion.
Looking Ahead
ShotHawk is poised to play a significant role in the future of public safety. With continued development and strategic partnerships, the company’s AI-powered safety system has the potential to save lives and create safer environments in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. As concerns about active shooter events continue to grow, innovative solutions like ShotHawk will be increasingly vital in protecting communities.