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International Recognition and Urban Leadership
The organization of the Smart City World Expo Congress, held in Barcelona, Spain, elected Curitiba as the Smartest City in the World in 2023. The recognition highlighted the set of public policies and urban planning programs implemented by the city hall, which prioritize socioeconomic growth alongside environmental sustainability. Thus, the capital of Paraná established itself as a model of innovation in public transport, environmental preservation, and urban development.
Public Transport and Sustainable Projects
Throughout the administration of Mayor Rafael Greca, Curitiba recovered its historical DNA of innovation with projects that transformed the local infrastructure. Among the highlights are the Solar Pyramid, Urban Farms, and Bairro Novo da Caximba, in addition to the planting of over 400,000 trees and the maintenance of 48 municipal parks. In this way, the city reaffirmed its environmental commitment while investing in technology to improve the quality of life for the population.
Pinhão Valley and Startup Ecosystem
Created in 2017, the Pinhão Valley positioned Curitiba as a hub of technological innovation and entrepreneurship. Through the City of Startups program, more than 600 emerging companies receive support, including three already established unicorns: Ebanx, Olist, and MadeiraMadeira. The government implemented tax incentives, professional training, and consulting to boost new businesses. As a result, the time to start a business was reduced to two hours, and the capital became a reference in public coworking and support mechanisms such as the Guarantee Fund for micro and small entrepreneurs.
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Electric Mobility and Multimodal Integration
The city also directed investments in electric mobility and transportation infrastructure. The public system began testing electric buses and expanded the BRT corridors, favoring multimodal integration. Meanwhile, the Walking Better Program and the expansion of the cycling network prioritize pedestrians and cyclists, reinforcing the commitment to active mobility. Thus, Curitiba consolidated its image as a reference in intelligent urban solutions.
Digital Inclusion and Technological Culture
In addition to the physical and structural advancements, Curitiba promoted digital inclusion and the dissemination of the maker culture. The population gained access to free public internet at 310 points in the city, as well as technological education programs aimed at new generations. Digital services were expanded with applications that provide municipal solutions directly to citizens, increasing transparency and facilitating access to public policies. In this way, the city established itself as a global example of how technology, innovation, and sustainability can walk hand in hand in urban planning.
