Launch of the Local Economic Development Series. The series is packaged in four volumes as "Quick Guide", "Manual" (concepts and process), "Toolkit" (to help apply the LED process), and "Action Guide" (case studies and practical ideas).

Responding to the emerging need to promote Local Economic Development (LED) within the context of rapid urbanization, and the role LED plays in meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), a new series of manuals has been completed on this subject. The manuals have been field tested in Romania, the Philippines, and Zambia.

The LED series is a resource for local governments, business and civil society organizations prepared to initiate and implement LED interventions through a locally owned and driven strategic planning process. The manuals promote an inclusive, participatory process that integrates strategic planning, community participation, sustainability and good decision-making with local economic development. It also provides key links to other training and implementation opportunities that could assist the local district, city, town or community with economic development.

The first volume in the series, the Quick Guide, contains summarized information for busy executives or those not intimately involved with planning and local economic development. It provides a user-friendly introduction to anyone not familiar with the topic and wanting to learn more about promoting local economic development through strategic planning. The Quick Guide is also a handy tool for facilitators working with busy city mayors and business leaders whose support for a strategic planning process is critical.

The Quick Guide was launched during UN-HABITAT's 20th Governing Council Meeting and is now available for general distribution.