Transforming Fire Equipment Procurement: Martin Hunt’s Vision for Public Safety

Meet Martin Hunt, a passionate firefighter since the age of 15, who understands the challenges faced by small communities struggling to afford essential fire equipment. Now at 26, he is on a mission to revolutionize the way these vital resources are procured.

In 2023, during a casual conversation with a fellow firefighter, Martin was prompted to explore better solutions for acquiring fire equipment. “When I couldn’t find anything, it became clear that there was a need for a streamlined, nationwide marketplace for expensive, hard-to-move equipment like firetrucks,” he shared with TechCrunch. This realization led him to take a bold leap and leave his job without a product or funding to create a solution.

Joining forces with his college friend, Alaz Sengul, Martin launched Garage, an innovative marketplace focused on providing specialized equipment for local governments and public safety entities. Garage automates the cumbersome processes of appraisal, freight quotes, and payment solutions, making it easier for civil servants, firefighters, fleet managers, and public works directors to access what they need without the hassle of endless paperwork.

Recently, Garage announced a significant milestone, securing $13.5 million in Series A funding led by Infinity Ventures. Currently, many fire departments rely on online auction sites, Facebook groups, or even classified ads in newspapers to find previously owned gear, often leading to inefficient and frustrating experiences.

Simultaneously, cities are faced with the challenge of selling old equipment to fund new supplies. Many communities struggle to sell fire trucks nationwide due to logistical complications. Garage’s platform simplifies this process: sellers utilize Garage’s AI tool for appraisals, list their equipment, and choose between auction or “buy now” options. Buyers can communicate directly with sellers to obtain instant quotes on warranties and freight. Once an agreement is reached, Garage manages the logistics, employing AI to streamline delivery coordination.

Given the high stakes involved in these transactions, often exceeding $100,000, security is paramount. Hunt emphasized this concern, especially with the prevalence of scams on platforms like Facebook Marketplace.

Martin described the fundraising journey as “catalytic,” noting that he and Sengul connected with key investors after participating in YC’s Winter ’24 cohort. They initially raised a $4.5 million seed round led by Initialized Capital, which eventually led them to Infinity Ventures.

Other notable participants in the funding round included Benchstrength, Wayfinder Ventures, and FJ Labs, bringing Garage’s total funding to $18 million.

This fresh influx of capital will be directed towards team expansion and marketplace enhancements. Hunt proudly shared that their product is now utilized across all 50 states, with cities like Burlington, Vermont, and South Charleston, West Virginia, among their clients.

“Our goal is to enhance access to affordable, mission-critical equipment, ultimately improving public safety in communities that need it most while ensuring funds are effectively utilized to support those serving local populations,” Hunt stated.

Your feedback is invaluable! Share your thoughts on TechCrunch and our events through our survey, and you might win a prize! Take the survey here!