The National Cities Conference Programme, of the Ministry of Cities in Brazil, is awarded for impressive work in promoting the participation of ordinary people in urban policy-making. The creation of the Ministry of Cities in 2003 and the annual National Cities Conference has revolutionized social participation in Brazil resulting in far-reaching impacts on pro-poor innovations in urban planning and housing. The partners in this initiative are the local communities, the private sector, non governmental organizations, professional, academic and research organizations, labour unions, and government officials. All contribute to decisions on policies executed by the Ministry.