Places

How does The Place Institute transform spaces into places?
The Place Institute transforms spaces into places that transcend functionality, becoming centers of human interaction that foster emotional, intellectual, and spiritual connections, enriching lives globally. Our approach nurtures relationships by prioritizing interaction and creating memorable experiences that bridge cultures, ultimately building communities that counteract isolation and loneliness by promoting collaboration and a sense of global citizenship.
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Our experience

Activate Public Spaces  

The Place Institute (formerly Lugares Públicos) was a grantee of the Southwest Airlines Heart of the Community program, designed to activate public spaces in cities served by Southwest Airlines. One of our founders contributed to the program's development, while the other led its iconic implementation in Mexico City. In partnership with Project for Public Spaces, this initiative leveraged placemaking to create lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits. Our involvement laid the foundation for a decade of global experience, creating vibrant places.

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Southwest, Activate public Spaces, 2024

Creating Lasting Places 

The Place Institute (formerly Lugares Públicos) took decisive action during the pandemic by partnering with and securing donations from the Coca-Cola Foundation in Atlanta and the Mexican Industry of Coca-Cola. Recognizing the urgent need for resilient community support, we focused on making public spaces the cornerstone of community development. Our mission was to create safe, vibrant parks that resonate with the unique needs of each community. Through this collaborative effort, we significantly amplified our impact, developing and revitalizing 20 parks across Mexico. Since 2020, this program has also impacted over 500 public spaces in partnership with Fundación Placemaking México, leveraging institutional support and strengthening the Placemaking México network.

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The Coca-Cola Foundation, Creating Lasting Places, 2024

Empowering Local Economies

The Place Institute, in partnership with Fundación Placemaking México, has supported the IDA Foundation through donations from American Express to make Mexico City one of the five cities included in the Backing International Small Restaurants program over the past three years. This initiative supports the reactivation and economic recovery of culturally significant, independent restaurants, particularly those led by underrepresented groups. The Place Institute has played a pivotal role in securing funds from U.S. donors and managing the program's implementation in Mexico. The program has supported 32 restaurants, providing USD 265,000 in financial assistance. The Place Institute can manage and scale such programs, leveraging international partnerships to drive community-focused economic development.

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American Express, Empowering Local Economies, 2024