Author Nancey Green Leigh brings years of academic and professional experience to this classic text, which offers a comprehensive look at the basic tenets of local economic development planning. The book explores the theories of local economic development while addressing the issues and opportunities faced by cities, towns, and local entities in crafting their economic destinies within the global economy. The new Seventh Edition is updated with an increased focus on sustainability and equity, including local economic development issues arising from the global COVID-19 pandemic and significant shifts in the global economy.