Wildfire tech firm Pano AI named in TIME100 list for 2025
Iain Hoey
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Pano AI included in TIME’s list of influential companies
Pano AI has been recognised on TIME’s 2025 list of the 100 Most Influential Companies.
The list, compiled annually by TIME, highlights organisations selected for their global influence, originality and impact.
According to Pano AI, the company was selected for its work in wildfire detection and early response technology, as well as its broader role in climate adaptation.
Pano AI is the only wildfire-focused technology company included in this year’s list, which features 105 organisations across multiple sectors.
CEO and co-founder Sonia Kastner said the recognition comes at a time when climate-related emergencies are becoming increasingly frequent and hazardous.
TIME assessed companies for impact and innovation
According to Pano AI, the TIME100 list is based on nominations from a wide range of industries and evaluated using input from TIME’s global network of correspondents and analysts.
The evaluation criteria included measurable influence, originality in approach, and achievement across industry or public sectors.
Pano AI stated that its inclusion reflects the expanding relevance of early warning systems in the context of climate change and emergency response.
The company explained that it sees the listing as evidence of growing recognition for technical tools that support early action in the face of extreme events.
TIME’s 2025 cohort included companies from technology, healthcare, finance, sustainability, and media.
AI-based wildfire detection used in multiple regions
Pano AI reported that its wildfire detection system is currently deployed across 10 U.S. states, five Australian states and the province of British Columbia in Canada.
According to the company, its platform monitors more than 30 million acres of land identified as high wildfire risk.
Pano AI added that its services support over 250 first responder agencies and nearly 40 organisations including government departments, energy suppliers, private landowners and forestry operators.
The system integrates ultra-HD cameras, satellite imaging, and artificial intelligence, supported by a 24/7 staffed monitoring centre.
The firm said that the combination of technology and human oversight helps speed up detection and improves coordination during wildfire incidents.
Funding and growth since 2020 launch
Pano AI was established in 2020 and has since raised $89 million in venture capital funding.
The company said its most recent round, a $44 million Series B investment, was led by Giant Ventures.
It noted that funding has supported the expansion of its detection system across North America and Australia.
The firm added that capital has also enabled the development of its human intelligence centre and expansion of partnerships with emergency services.
According to the company, growth has been driven by the increased demand for proactive wildfire strategies.
Executive comments on industry challenges and mission
Sonia Kastner, co-founder and CEO of Pano AI, said the company’s mission is aligned with the increasing urgency around wildfire mitigation.
Kastner said: “It’s an honour to be named to the TIME100 at such a pivotal moment for wildfire mitigation.”
She added:
“Wildfires are becoming more frequent and more destructive.”
“Our mission is to equip those on the front lines with the best possible tools, so that they can respond more effectively and more safely.”
“This recognition underscores the essential role innovation plays in confronting extreme weather and that the time to adapt is now.”
Kastner stated that technological tools will continue to play a central role in how communities respond to escalating fire threats.
TIME includes Pano AI in 2025 influential companies list: Summary
Pano AI has been included in TIME’s 2025 list of the 100 Most Influential Companies.
The announcement was made by Pano AI on 30 June 2025.
The company develops AI-based wildfire detection systems.
The TIME100 list is based on nominations, expert input, and assessment of impact and originality.
Pano AI’s system operates across the US, Australia, and Canada.
It monitors over 30 million acres of high-risk land.
The company supports more than 250 first responder agencies.
It serves nearly 40 customers across public and private sectors.
The company launched in 2020 and has raised $89 million in funding.
A $44 million Series B round was led by Giant Ventures.
CEO Sonia Kastner welcomed the recognition.
The system uses cameras, satellite data, and AI.
It is supported by a staffed human intelligence centre.
Pano AI stated that demand is increasing due to more frequent wildfires.
The TIME100 list includes 105 companies in 2025.