The Urban Institute was founded in 1968 with a mandate to bridge the gap between the lonely scholar in search of truth and the decision-maker in search of progress. Today, the Urban Institute gathers data, conducts research, evaluates programs, and offers technical assistance to foster sound public policy and effective government around the world. UI is well-known within the United States for its domestic policy research in the areas of tax policy, health policy, housing, labor markets, justice and public safety, and poverty.
As one of UI's ten research centers, the mission of the Urban Institute Center on International Development and Governance (IDG) is to improve governance and opportunities for citizens in developing countries by providing research and technical assistance focused on local government, delivery and financing of public services, and the interactions of the public sector with firms and citizens.
Among many voices in the field of international development, the Urban Institute is uniquely able to bring an integrated approach to local governance and economic development, building on the expertise of economists, city managers, legal experts, and other development practitioners.
Follow these links for additional information on our institutional capabilities, highlights of IDG's recent work (IDG Highlights), or if you would like to learn more about working with IDG. Likewise, further information is available on IDG's technical practice areas and our team. Please contact us if you have any further questions about our work or capabilities.