This working paper explores successful strategies and measures for climate resilience and low carbon development that communities and leaders have pursued at the subnational level, drawing on the practical experiences of the Climate & Development Knowledge Network’s project partners and the broader ICLEI network. It argues that the battle for climate compatible development will be won or lost in provinces, districts and cities. It explains distinct challenges at subnational level, such as future climate data for local and subnational levels being more uncertain than at larger scales. It also outlines unique opportunities including that subnational decision-makers often have a sound understanding of climate trends in their area, based on first-hand experience and local and indigenous knowledge.