Leveraging a startup-based approach for digital transformation in the public sector: A case study of Brazil's startup gov.br program

The rapid advancement of information and communication technologies is driving a swift transition towards digital transformation (DT) in public services globally. This paper investigates Brazil's approach to DT through its Startup Gov.br program, which employs startup principles to drive digital innovation within federal government agencies. Drawing upon interviews with key stakeholders and analysis of publicly available documents, the study reveals the program's characteristics and its integration into the current IT governance structure of the federal government. The results indicate that the program effectively addresses capacity constraints within government agencies, fostering strategic projects and long-term cultural change. By examining this novel approach, the paper contributes to the literature on startups in the public sector and offers insights into how governments can leverage innovative strategies for effective digital transformation.