Flock Safety, a leading provider of AI-driven surveillance solutions, has raised an impressive $275 million in fresh funding, pushing its valuation to $7.5 billion. The latest investment round was led by longtime VC partner Bedrock Capital, with participation from Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), Greenoaks, Meritech Capital, Matrix Partners, and Y Combinator.
Founded in 2017, Flock Safety has experienced rapid growth, boasting over $300 million in annual recurring revenue—a 70% year-over-year increase. The Atlanta-based startup is best known for its automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) technology, widely used by law enforcement, businesses, and property management firms. Expanding beyond ALPR, Flock has also developed gunshot detection technology for schools and recently acquired public safety drone company Aerodome.
With nearly $1 billion in total funding, Flock remains a favorite among investors. Bedrock Capital’s founder, Geoff Lewis, recalls flying to Atlanta in 2018 to persuade Flock CEO Garrett Langley to accept a $10 million Series A-1 investment—despite the startup having just closed its Series A at a staggering $60 million valuation. Since then, Bedrock has invested more than $164 million in Flock.
Despite its success, Flock Safety faces scrutiny from privacy advocates and legal challenges. The ACLU has raised concerns over mass surveillance, while residents in Norfolk, Virginia, have filed lawsuits to prevent its deployment. Additionally, a California mayor has sued Flock for wrongful termination.
Still, the startup’s influence continues to grow. Andreessen Horowitz’s David Ulevitch has praised Flock for “literally helping to save lives,” while Y Combinator’s Garry Tan recently applauded the company’s crime-fighting success.
With strong investor backing and surging demand for AI-powered security solutions, Flock Safety is poised to expand its footprint in public safety and smart surveillance technology.
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Explosive Growth and Market Expansion
Since its founding in 2017, Flock Safety has witnessed rapid adoption of its technology across law enforcement agencies, businesses, and private communities. With annual recurring revenue surpassing $300 million and 70% year-over-year growth, the company has become a dominant force in the surveillance and public safety sector.
Flock’s flagship ALPR technology is deployed nationwide to help track stolen vehicles, locate missing persons, and prevent crime. The company has also expanded its product suite to include:
- Gunshot Detection Systems – Designed for schools and public spaces to enhance emergency response.
- Aerial Surveillance Solutions – Following its acquisition of public safety drone company Aerodome.
- Real-Time AI Monitoring – Enabling law enforcement agencies to receive instant alerts on potential threats.
A Magnet for Investors
Flock Safety’s growth story has made it a favorite among venture capitalists. Bedrock Capital’s founder, Geoff Lewis, recalls flying to Atlanta in 2018 to persuade CEO Garrett Langley to accept a $10 million Series A-1 investment, even after closing a $60 million Series A just months earlier. Since then, Bedrock has funneled more than $164 million into the company, while other heavyweight investors like a16z have doubled down on their support.
Privacy Concerns and Legal Challenges
Despite its rapid expansion, Flock Safety has faced backlash from privacy advocates and legal hurdles. The ACLU has raised alarms over potential mass surveillance, and lawsuits have emerged in places like Norfolk, Virginia, where residents oppose Flock’s technology being implemented. Furthermore, a California mayor has sued the company for wrongful termination, adding to the scrutiny surrounding its business practices.
The Future of AI-Driven Public Safety
Despite controversies, Flock Safety’s backers believe in its mission to revolutionize public safety through AI-powered surveillance. Investors like Andreessen Horowitz’s David Ulevitch have praised Flock’s technology for “literally helping to save lives,” while Y Combinator’s Garry Tan has highlighted the company’s role in crime reduction.
With nearly $1 billion in total funding and a rapidly growing customer base, Flock Safety is poised to reshape the future of AI surveillance, security, and law enforcement technology. The company’s latest funding will likely fuel further advancements, new product innovations, and international expansion.
