Without strong local institutions and motivated staff, decentralization and human settlements reform will not deliver the desired development outcomes. Yet, many local authorities and civil society organizations lack the human resources required to meet urgent needs. Training and capacity building is therefore a wise investment into the future sustainability of our cities. The Training and Capacity Building Branch (TCBB) of UN-HABITAT supports national training institutions to build their capacity to implement innovative programs, focusing on local governance and sustainable human settlements development. Typical activities include training needs assessment, development of manuals, training of trainers, and impact evaluation. TCBB products have been successfully adapted and translated into over 20 languages.
This Quick Guide is a snapshot overview of the Local Economic Development (LED) Series which focuses on promoting local economic development through strategic planning. The series is comprised of four volumes; Volume 1 – Quick Guide, Volume 2 - Manual, Volume 3 – Toolkit and, Volume 4 - Action Guide. The Quick Guide contains summarized information and resources prepared for busy executives or those not intimately involved with planning for local economic development. It is also handy tool for facilitators when approaching and communicating with busy city mayors and business leaders whose support for a strategic planning process is critical. The LED series is a resource for local governments, businesses and civil society organizations, prepared to initiate and implement LED interventions through a locally owned and driven strategic planning process.