Economic Development
Strategic Planning. Strong Future.
At Urban Econ, we create economic development strategies that ignite growth, create jobs, and unlock potential in both urban and rural areas. Through in-depth economic research, strategic planning, and modelling, we deliver practical, data-driven solutions rooted in real-world impact.
We collaborate closely with public and private sector partners locally and internationally to build thriving economies that are inclusive, resilient, and future-focused.
Services
01
Long-Term Strategic Plans & Visions
02
Provincial & Regional Development Strategies
03
Local Economic Development Strategies
04
05
Rural Development Strategies
Strategy and Policy Formulation & Review
06
Municipal Viability Assessments
07
Motivations for Funding Applications
08
Regional Spatial Analysis (including GIS)
09
Industrial Clusters & Hubs
10
Industrial & Manufacturing Development Strategies
11
Feasibility & Viability Assessments
12
Business Plan Developme
13
Sector Analysis
14
Data modelling
15
Impact Evaluations
16
Database Development & Analysis
Flagship Projects
DDM/JDMA Policy Position
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Urban-Econ Development Economists in partnership with Urban-Econ Nikela had been appointed by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) to conduct a Review of the District Development Model/Joint District Metro Approach Towards a SALGA Policy Position. This project is concerned with the District Development Model (DDM) and the Joint District Metro Approach (JDMA) model. The data collection tool was used to gather data from municipalities with the main objective of soliciting their own perceptions, experiences and thoughts about the DDM.
The study used this primary data to develop a sound SALGA position on the implementation modalities of the DDM nationally and JDMA in Western Cape municipalities. The project determined the experiences of municipalities against these findings towards the development of a SALGA policy position.
Diagnostic Analysis of Local Economic Development (LED) Function in local government
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The project had a comprehensive scope, aiming to examine the Local Economic Development (LED) function as a whole in South Africa. The primary objective was to assess the institutional infrastructure supporting LED, identify the necessary resources, and evaluate the processes and support required to enhance its effectiveness.
Through extensive research, data analysis, and stakeholder consultations, the project sought to gain a deep understanding of the current state of LED in South Africa, including its strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and opportunities. The focus was on identifying gaps and areas of improvement in terms of policy frameworks, coordination mechanisms, funding mechanisms, capacity building, and knowledge sharing. By providing a detailed analysis of the institutional landscape, resource requirements, and necessary support mechanisms, the project aimed to contribute to the enhancement of LED in South Africa, facilitating more effective and impactful local economic development initiatives across the country.
North West Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2030
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Urban-Econ Development Economists (Urban-Econ) has been appointed by the Office of the Premier (the “Client”) of the North West province of South Africa to undertake an economic forecasting and modelling exercise. This economic forecasting and modelling exercise is aimed at supporting the parallel process of drafting of the North West Provincial Development and Growth Strategy (PDGS). It was found that the North West economy is not providing the requisite number of employment opportunities or the desired standard of living for the residents of the North West.
This is reflected in the GDP per Capita, HDI, and unemployment figures. The final finding of the Economic Modelling and Forecasting Report is that the North West provincial government must focus on building logistical infrastructure, energy infrastructure, and water infrastructure and seek to provide these basic amenities to the North West economy.
