The challenge

Local economic development is now widely regarded as an effective strategy for achieving inclusive economic growth and territorial development. It is a locally-driven, participatory development process intended to encourage the public sector, civil society actors, women, youth organizations and private stakeholders to work in partnership in the design and implementation of local development strategies by taking into account the strengths and weaknesses of a region, a locality or a value chain. Local economic development strategies enhance links between economic growth and jobs creation. They contribute to improving local governance through enhanced stakeholder participation, a partnership among different actors and by fostering relationships between different levels of government

Impact

Municipal revenue generation improved to
300%
in Somalia and over 90 per cent in Afghanistan through policy enhancements and provision of technical support.
More than
39
partner cities implemented strategies for improved urban and municipal finance.
Livelihoods for
69,253
urban youth were improved through entrepreneurial and technical skills training and start-up grants.

News and Stories

Featured Stories & Videos

Featured Stories & Videos

Highlighted Publications

Paper
Unlocking the Potential of Cities: Financing Sustainable Urban Development
Regional Report
The State of Arab Cities Report 2022
Technical Report
Intermediary Cities and Climate Change: An Opportunity for Sustainable Development
Technical Report
Financing Sustainable Urban Development
Technical Report
Report on Sustainable Competitiveness of Cities Worldwide(2020-2021)
Toolkits, Manuals and Guides
Finance for City Leaders Handbook -2nd Edition

Donors and partners

The successful implementation of local economic development strategies largely depends on strength of partnerships among local authorities, local communities, private sector, and civil society actors. At the project design stage, UN-Habitat helps local authorities identify key partners who can contribute to achieving project’s objectives, particularly creating jobs and economic growth.

Our Experts

Javier Torner
Programme Management Officer, Planning, Finance and Economy Section
Urban Practices Branch , Global Solutions Division