CLES at 40: rewiring the future of local economies
In the kitchen of the CLES offices in Manchester sits a framed black-and-white photo of the first meeting of CLES,…
Centre for Local Economies
Founded in 1986, the Centre for Local Economies is an independent economics think tank. We work collaboratively across the UK and Ireland to develop solutions that ensure economies are rooted in the places people call home.
At CLES, we collaborate as equals with all levels of government, local institutions and communities – challenging outdated methods and tackling local issues with practical, long-term solutions. We are recognised as the UK’s leading voice on community wealth building.
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Community wealth building
Community wealth building is a people-centred approach to local economic development. It’s about making sure the wealth generated in a place – through jobs, businesses, public services and land – stays in that place and benefits the people who live there. Rather than wealth flowing out to distant shareholders or external corporations, community wealth building focusses on increasing local ownership, fair employment and democratic control of resources.
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