"With over a third of the Myanmar?s population living in urban areas, the governance of towns and cities is of increasing importance. With rising rates of urbanization and population growth, urban services are a critical interface between citizens and government. Outside of Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw, urban agencies called Development Affairs Organizations (DAOs) provide a range of services and goods to the urban populace as well as oversee local economic governance. As key actors for urban management, attention to and support of DAOs are vital to Myanmar?s democratic transition and economic development. The Asia Foundation and the Renaissance Institute are pleased to present this research on the planning and budgeting frameworks and processes of DAOs."