Recently, several scholars have called for rethinking the concept of place branding (PB), articulating fundamental questions in favour of furthering its theory and practice. They have suggested the re-assessment of the applications, constructs, measures, and strategies of PB which necessitate the cross-disciplinary elaborations towards the development of the field. Place branding is, however, considered a complex social practice due to the multiplicity of stakeholders, diversity of components and approaches involved in the process, as well as the complexity of the places where the process takes place. Hence, an alternative integrated perspective is required that extends conventional approaches and frameworks beyond mere economic interests and fixed market-driven solutions. The purpose of this thesis is to conceptualise an integrated place branding (IPB) framework, to determine and demonstrate how such a framework can be developed, and to reflect upon what an integrated approach implies for the development of PB theory and practice. The research indicates that the development of such a process requires long-term negotiation and participation of internal stakeholders, an all-inclusive human-centred approach, and the application of social innovation (SI) strategies. The proposed framework is then examined through a survey of residents of six different cities in Canada, Iran, and Portugal. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLSSEM) is used to empirically evaluate the proposed framework. This thesis provides several theoretical and practical contributions to the field. While developing an IPB framework based on SI strategies, this study represents a practical tool for policymakers and brand managers to foster, facilitate and enhance the processes of PB, development, and transformation in an integrated way. This thesis’ findings highlight the impact of IPB on several aspects of improvements in the place including sociocultural, institutional, and territorial developments. The results indicate such a framework can bring about changes in community values, beliefs, and norms, socio-political relations, and overall image of the place supporting the development of innovative practices and multi-purpose activities and fostering a creative atmosphere and competencies in the place that might improve the local economy. The findings also show the opportunities for the development of a multilevel governance system that involves disadvantaged groups in decisions, and new multiscalar social organisations that support social inclusion and community empowerment.