Seidman (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) developed this text for his graduate course but has broadened its scope to make it useful for both beginning and seasoned finance practitioners who oversee transactions and manage programs. Coverage includes the basics of business and real estate finance as well as the complexities of program models and finance tools, for both private and public financing of local and regional economic development projects. Each policy or institution is covered in terms of its content and characteristics, use and impact, design and management issues, and best practices. For those with no financial background or special math skills, initial chapters cover basic financial and accounting concepts; basic arithmetic and algebra are sufficient background. Case studies and assignments conclude most chapters. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)