The beginning of the twenty first century has been characterized by the expansion of economic, politics and institutional relations. Using international case studies, this book illustrates the local answer to the challenge of increasing competition. The book introduces the idea of endogenous development, identifying the theoretical roots and defining its main features. It then goes on to indicate how this concept can be used to understand economic dynamics, and to show how the concept is relevant in economic analysis and policy implementation in times of globalization. After an introduction discussing globalization and development, the book is organized in three parts: * Part one defines and discusses the concept of endogenous development * Part two analyses the processes involved in the mechanics of capital accumulation and local development, examining the role of institutions in development processes and the functions of cities in globalization. * Part three argues that a new generation of development policies is beginning to take shape, based on the fact that greater competition and globalization increases spatial diversity and stimulates strategic behaviour. This work will be of essential interest to academics and policy-makers in planning and development and development economics.