São Paulo launches “Connect the Dots” initiative

This week marked the official launch of São Paulo’s “Connect the Dots” program, an initiative to develop farmers’ agro-ecological practices to expand their sources of income, protect vital watershed areas, and encourage entrepreneurs to start businesses. The grand prize winner of Bloomberg Philanthropies’ 2016 Mayors Challenge in Latin America and the Caribbean, São Paulo entered the competition to find a solution to the urban sprawl threatening the region’s local farmers and forcing them to struggle to make a living off their produce.

“Our project will create new jobs and strengthen the healthy food industry,” said Mayor João Doria, who attended the event. “We are now focused on execution and committed to making an impact for our citizens.”