Greenlite, Led by Ex-Gopuff Executive, Automates Construction Permitting

The process of obtaining construction permits often entails submitting detailed applications, which can create uncertainty for developers and businesses. With thousands of jurisdictions across the U.S., each with its own unique forms and procedures, navigating the permitting landscape can be challenging.

Ben Allen, who previously spearheaded business expansion and strategy at Gopuff, encountered these challenges firsthand while launching Gopuff Kitchens. The initiative, which aimed to establish ghost kitchens across hundreds of U.S. locations, was consistently hindered by the permitting process.

“The permitting system for developers, builders, and local governments is largely outdated and manual,” Allen noted in a conversation with TechCrunch. “Some jurisdictions only review permit plans on specific days or during limited hours, which prolongs the process. Without adopting more efficient solutions, cities remain trapped in a slow and costly permitting cycle.”

Following his tenure at Gopuff, Allen joined forces with James Gallagher, a former colleague, to address these inefficiencies. Two years ago, they co-founded Greenlite, a platform designed to streamline the permitting process across various jurisdictions.

Greenlite enables its clients—ranging from retailers and fast-food chains to developers and home builders—to conduct plan reviews using software. While competitors like PermitFlow, Accela, and Tyler Technologies offer similar services, Gallagher, Greenlite’s CEO, emphasizes that these firms tend to focus more on application submissions rather than comprehensive plan reviews.

“Greenlite’s platform accelerates the permitting process by providing transparent, digital reviews,” Gallagher explained. He added that Greenlite is authorized to review construction plans and perform building inspections in about 2,000 jurisdictions.

In some regions, such as Miami, contractors have the option to use private providers like Greenlite instead of relying on government plan reviews and inspections. “What sets Greenlite apart is its ability to integrate zoning data, local building codes, and compliance requirements into a single platform,” said Gallagher.

While Gallagher did not disclose revenue figures, he mentioned that Greenlite has secured “dozens” of clients and is well-positioned for further growth. “Our customers consistently require permits, whether for new developments or renovating existing properties,” he stated.

This growth is further supported by new capital. Greenlite recently closed a $28.5 million Series A funding round led by Craft Ventures, with additional investment from 53 Stations, Trust Ventures, and LiveOak Ventures. This brings the company’s total raised to $36.5 million. Gallagher plans to use the funds to expand into markets such as lodging, industrial, and green infrastructure, while also focusing on customer acquisition.

Headquartered in New York, Greenlite currently employs 30 people, with plans to hire an additional 10 by the end of the year.

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