The beginning of the twenty first century has been characterized by the expansion of economics, 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. This work will be of essential interest to academics and policy-makers in planning and development economics.