Within the United States and across the world, the role of local institutions, both public and private, is emerging as a key factor in establishing development policies. With the growing political philosophy that federal and/or central governments can no longer play a dominate role in policy formation, the responsibility for providing key public services and the formation of community economic development policies is taking on a greater grassroots approach. As local institutions assume a greater role, research, teaching and outreach on the economic, social and political challenges facing local residents is becoming increasingly important.