We offer best practice on how to create more and better quality jobs through effective policy implementation and local initiatives.
The OECD Local Employment and Economic Development Programme (LEED) provides practical solutions for how to build vibrant communities with more and better jobs for all. It achieves this by supporting effective policy implementation and local initiatives.
LEED was created over forty years ago to support OECD governments at national, regional and local level with innovative approaches to local job creation, social inclusion and economic growth.
LEED brings together policy makers and practitioners from around the world to identify, evaluate and disseminate promising approaches to local development. In the wake of the COVD-19 crisis, building back better lies in advancing innovative solutions to build resilient local labour markets, particularly to ensure a just twin green and digital transition.
We bridge national policies and local communities by:
We serve as a gateway for local communities to the OECD by:
LEED’s work is steered by a committee of representatives from ministries of employment and labour, social affairs, economy, and regional development from OECD and non-OECD countries. Many local and regional governments also engage in projects with LEED.
The Programme is housed in the OECD’s Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities.
Local development is the process of building stronger, more vibrant communities, where economic opportunities flourish, and all residents can enjoy a high quality of life. It’s about job creation and competitiveness, but not only. Issues such as inclusion, social connectedness and civic pride are also at the heart of a modern approach to local development.
A skilled workforce represents an important tool for local economies to attract new talent and investment. In fast-changing labour markets, local employment and skills policies need to better connect employers with the talent they seek and prepare all people for the future of work. Involving a wide range of stakeholders through local partnerships contributes to helping local communities thrive while seeking to not leave anyone behind.
Cultural and creative sectors are an often-overlooked driver of development. However, they generate economic wealth, create jobs, and spur innovation, as well as making places more attractive to live, work and invest in. Similarly, both professional and grassroots sport contributes to happier, healthier and more inclusive societies and can be used as a catalyst for development, for example through the hosting of major sporting events.
The social economy and social innovation are powerful tools for creating more inclusive, creative and sustainable societies and economies.
The social economy and social innovation help with things like reducing poverty, improving healthcare and education, providing housing, developing communities, conserving the environment, and making sure everyone has fair access to resources. Both work to solve social and environmental problems and make sure everyone benefits from changes in society. They make sure marginalized groups aren't forgotten and that everyone gets a fair share of the benefits.
The social economy and social innovation actively address socio-economic and environmental challenges and contribute to a just twin transition by aiming for marginalised groups to not be left behind and that the benefits of these transitions are shared equitably. This includes challenges related to poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, housing, and community development, as well as environmental conservation and promoting fair access to resources.
In recognition of its importance, the OECD Recommendation on the Social and Solidarity Economy and Social Innovation was issued in 2022 to further help countries, regions and cities make the most its potential.
Unlocking entrepreneurial talent across the population contributes to inclusive and sustainable growth, labour market attachment and social and financial inclusion. Inclusive entrepreneurship policies aim to offer all people an equal opportunity of creating a successful business, regardless of their gender, age, place of birth or other personal characteristics.
Contact us to receive tailored support and advice: Undertake a policy review to better capitalize on local economic, social and cultural assets.
Participate in our Forum and events.
Access our online resources around local employment and economic development.
