Braga: A Catalyst for Sustainable Urban Development
Braga has positioned itself as a pioneering force in sustainable urban development, embodying a forwardthinking approach that seamlessly integrates economic growth, social inclusion, and cultural richness. Over the past decade, Braga has achieved remarkable progress, with a 100% increase in exports, now contributing more than 2.4% to Portugal’s total exports. In parallel, the city has consistently created approximately 2000 new jobs annually, underscoring its role as a vibrant economic hub and a center of entrepreneurial dynamism.
Living Lab for Innovation
Braga’s Living Lab model has become a catalyst for startup growth, positioning the city as a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, mainly in Startup Braga. Since 2014, more than 250 startups have been supported, with over 100 companies successfully incubated. The city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem has attracted €438 million in funding through venture capital and business angels, empowering local businesses to scale and thrive.
Initiatives such as the Sciencepreneurs Program and iTech Tourism Program illustrate Braga’s commitment to fostering innovation. These programs provide entrepreneurs with the tools and networks to develop highimpact solutions, from tourism and technology to creative industries and environmental sustainability. By creating an environment where new ideas are tested in real-world settings, Braga has become a leader in urban innovation.
Cultural Engagement and Community Connection
Braga’s cultural vitality is a cornerstone of its identity, reflecting the city’s deep-rooted commitment to both preserving its heritage and fostering contemporary artistic expression. The city has developed a robust calendar of cultural initiatives designed to engage and inspire the community. Events such as the Gnration Open Day and the INDEX Art and Technology Biennial draw thousands of participants annually, solidifying Braga’s reputation as a cultural hub where innovation meets tradition. More than 75 000 people participate in cultural activities each year, from music festivals to technology-driven exhibitions, underscoring the city’s role as a center of artistic and intellectual exchange. Braga’s cultural initiatives are not limited to large-scale events. The city actively nurtures local talent through projects like Laboratórios de Verão and Trabalho da Casa, which provide platforms for emerging artists to showcase their work and engage with the community.
Empowering Social Entrepreneurship
In addition to its economic and cultural achievements, Braga is deeply committed to social entrepreneurship and positive community impact. Since 2020, the city has supported 75 social entrepreneurship initiatives that address critical societal issues such as poverty, education, and environmental sustainability. Through the Social Innovation Center, the Human Power Hub, Braga developed programs like Tech4Good, that empowers individuals to develop creative solutions to social challenges, fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship that extends beyond the economic realm.
Braga’s collaboration with educational institutions, particularly the University of Minho, plays a vital role in nurturing local talent. The UMinho Education Alliance is a flagship initiative aimed at bridging the gap between academic training and labor market demands. By 2026, this ambitious program will have enrolled more than 2000 participants in lifelong learning courses and produced over 800 new graduates, ensuring that Braga’s workforce remains competitive and prepared for the future.
International Recognition and Leadership
Braga’s achievements have not gone unnoticed on the global stage. The city has been recognized for its innovative approaches and leadership in sustainability, earning prestigious accolades such as the UNESCO Creative City in Media Arts designation, which acknowledges Braga’s commitment to creativity, culture, and technological innovation.
Braga’s leadership extends beyond awards, as the city actively participates in a leading role in international networks like Eurocities, ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability), and the Global Parliament of Mayors.
As a founding member of the Global Startup Cities network and a participant in the European Commission’s Intelligent Cities Challenge, Braga is positioned as a model for cities seeking to enhance quality of life through innovation and sustainable development.
A Vision for the Future
As Braga moves forward, it continues to solidify its reputation as a vibrant ecosystem where innovation, culture, and community come together in a shared vision for the future. The city’s candidacy for the European Rising Innovative City Award highlights not only its past achievements but also its ongoing commitment to creating a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for all residents.