In Latin America, the topic smartcities is growing  in mportance among governments and the private sector. Problems with infrastructure and the implementation of new technologies impact the status quo of the established industries that do not want to lose their market. Although the change is happening in a slow speed and depends on decisions that involve planning and political definitions,  the changes are  happening everywhere, driven by new entrepreneurs fostered by investors. According to recent studies, the most advanced cities in Latin America in this segment are Santiago in Chile, La Paz, Guadalajara in Mexico and Monteria in Colombia.

In Santigo do Chile, to prevent water wastage, the city has developed a sensor data collecting method in which parks and other public green spaces undergo irrigation based on the amount of moisture necessary. The city has also implemented an advanced electric transit system. In La Paz, Bolivia they’ve created   an extensive cable car system to serve the population living in the steep Andean hills rising 500 meters above the city center. The cable car system has now become the main mode of public transportation in the city, allowing residents on the outskirts access to the main areas of commerce and employment.  Guadalajara, Mexico was  the first Mexican city to receive designation as a smart city. Through the city’s Digital Creative City (DCC) initiative, Guadalajara is revitalizing its city center by emphasizing historical and cultural preservation while relying on technology to improve the city’s infrastructure and accommodate its population growth. The city is also relying on various technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and a smart grid, to provide its citizens with clean water, efficient transportation and affordable electricity. The city relies on a participatory model to engage residents in the city planning process. And finally in Montería, Colombia they  established  a sustainable infrastructure plan aimed at tackling extreme weather patterns and emissions. It intends to reduce emissions by declaring city-wide car-free days and improving public mobility. The city is also home to an innovation lab, which focuses on developing digital technologies and training individuals to work with these technologies. Montería is also tackling public health issues through its e-health initiatives and is installing solar panels in its public schools.  In Brazil,  the ecossystem is starting to grow and most of the startups that provide solutions for cities are in São Paulo, followed by Rio de Janeiro, Santa Catarina and Minas Gerais.  Intelligent and non pollutant means of transportation, wireless connections, waste recycling and management  and the  improvement of the governamental services to the citizens are some key focus areas of the startups in the region.