Validated Expert info
Expert can perform Ad hoc expertise missions at network and programme level in relation to:
Thematic expertise:
> Strategic urban planning
Methods and tools for integrated and participatory approaches:
> Integrated and participatory design of strategies
Summary
Mihai Balint is an urban development and public investment expert with over 10 years of experience working across strategy, design and implementation of urban projects. His work is driven by a strong interest in how cities can be shaped to better respond to people’s real needs — not only functionally, but also socially and psychologically.
He currently serves as CTO at the Urban Innovation and Planning Center of Bucharest, an organisation he is also among the initiators of, where he coordinates multidisciplinary teams and contributes to the development of integrated urban strategies and public investment projects.
Throughout his career, Mihai has worked on a wide range of projects, from urban masterplans and public spaces to buildings and complex development programmes, managing investments between €1000 and €70M. His approach focuses on connecting strategic vision with funding and implementation, ensuring that projects move from concept to delivery.
His perspective on city development is shaped by experience across public administration, private sector, NGOs, academia and direct collaboration with local communities. This allows him to navigate different interests and translate complex urban challenges into clear, actionable solutions.
He has strong experience in integrated and participatory approaches, supporting local authorities in aligning planning, governance and funding, and in turning long-term strategies into concrete actions. Within the Urban Innovation and Planning Center, he is involved in testing pilot projects, documenting results and sharing knowledge with public authorities interested in applying innovative solutions.
Mihai is also one of the initiators of the Urban Innovation Institute, focused on innovation and knowledge exchange in urban development and am member of ISOCARP. He is actively involved in European initiatives such as the New European Bauhaus and EUI, contributing to peer-learning environments through workshops, presentations and strategic input.