Lifelong learning is increasingly seen as being important for the future well-being of local economies. The paper considers the macro-context for lifelong learning and local economic development by reviewing what is meant by lifelong, or lifetime, learning, and argues why lifelong learning is important for local economies in terms of: improving the skill base; helping to promote equality and reduce social exclusion; developing the ‘learning’ industry; and providing for wider social, economic, democratic and cultural benefits. The current broad EU and UK policy frameworks are then considered. The paper then sets out issues that key actors in local economics should consider in order to effectively promote lifelong learning. It concludes that major improvements in the level and type of support for all types oflearning, from informal learning to more formal mentoring, training and education, are required. Also a consistent and proactive approach by local and wider agencies would make greater integration of lifelong learning into local economic development policies easier and more effective. To be successful the key actors in a local economy will need a shared understanding of the role of lifelong learning in the future, and a willingness to develop an understanding and co-ordinated action among themselves and with wider organisations.