The village renewal program and the idea of ​​smart villages are concepts adopted in the European Union that promote projects aimed at improving the living conditions of rural residents. Both programs have aroused interest not only among representatives of local governments, but also among rural leaders. While the village renewal program, known for 20 years, allows us to look back at implemented projects and challenges, the smart village concept is a new solution and it is still not known what it will be good at and what its effects will be. The article describes both concepts, indicating their similarities and differences. In addition, an attempt was made to answer the question whether the concept of rural development smart villages is a continuation of the village renewal program or a completely new solution for improving the quality of life in the countryside. The comparative analysis conducted allowed us to identify common features of both programs, which include: activation of the local community, taking into account local conditions and resources, implementation of both infrastructure and social projects. Recommendations for the further development of smart villages were also formulated.