From Climate Urgency To AI, Smart City Expo Miami Marks Six Years Of Reimagining Urban Life

When most people think of Miami’s global reputation, real estate, nightlife, and a steady flow of new residents and companies often come to mind. Yet another narrative is taking shape—Miami is positioning itself as a testing ground for how cities can meet the challenges of the 21st century.

That story will come into focus October 6–8, when the sixth annual Smart City Expo Miami – RE:IMAGINE URBAN SPACES takes place at Miami Dade College’s AI Lab.

What began as a small gathering has grown into one of the leading smart city events in the Americas, drawing participants from more than 20 countries. The Expo serves as a platform to tackle global questions about sustainability, resilience, inclusion, and innovation at a time when cities are grappling with climate change, rapid technological shifts, and evolving demographics.

“Miami is a laboratory for the challenges cities everywhere are facing,” said Bernardo Scheinkman, founder of Smart Cities Americas and curator of the event. “Our cultural energy, climate urgency, and tech momentum all come together here. That’s why these conversations matter globally.”

The Expo brings together diverse voices—mayors, architects, technologists, sociologists, researchers, and residents—to explore practical solutions for the cities of tomorrow. Topics include governance in the digital era, the role of artificial intelligence, and designing urban spaces that prioritize wellbeing alongside efficiency.

Featured speakers include Dr. Jonathan Reichental, author of Smart Cities for Dummies, and Raimundo Rodulfo, CIO of Coral Gables, a city recognized worldwide for its civic tech initiatives. The event also draws perspectives from across the globe—from Poland to Saudi Arabia to Australia—reflecting its commitment to blending local insights with international dialogue.

For Scheinkman, the sense of urgency unites the participants. “The climate clock is ticking,” he said. “We only have one shot to design cities that are equitable, resilient, and livable. Smart City Expo Miami is about turning bold ideas into real-world action.”

The conference also practices what it preaches, following ISO 20121 standards to embed sustainability principles into its operations, from logistics to program design.

Miami itself is undergoing a transformation. Once dismissed as a city of style without substance, it’s now attracting attention for its leadership in climate innovation and civic experimentation. The continued success of Smart City Expo Miami underscores that these conversations are not only resonating but accelerating.

While the Expo may not deliver easy answers, its real value lies in reframing the questions: What does equity look like in an age of AI-driven infrastructure? How can public spaces balance digital life’s pressures? And how can cities be designed to foster not just growth, but genuine happiness?

📍 Event Details

• What: Smart City Expo Miami – RE:IMAGINE URBAN SPACES

• Where: Miami Dade College AI Lab, Wolfson Campus (300 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132)

• When: October 6–8, 2025