The Institute for International Urban Development ("I2UD") strives to assist individuals, policy makers and local stakeholders in their efforts to strategically meet the challenges of sustainable urbanization. Working with our partners, we develop urban/regional plans and technical studies, create and mediate cross-border and cross-sector dialogue, and empower local communities to voice their needs and priorities. Our work addresses such crosscutting issues as environmental and cultural heritage preservation, housing and employment for the urban poor, and capacity building for local partners. At the core of our work is the belief that each assignment provides the opportunity to engage and empower individuals enabling their on-going participation in addressing the needs of their community.