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Li-Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) and LDH-derived mixed metal oxide (MMO) are promising solid base catalysts due to their instinct and strong surface basicity. Herein, nano Li-Al LDH was synthesized via the crystal growth from metal hydroxide nanoseeds with low crystallinities. The present Li-Al LDH possesses high specific surface area (326 m2 g−1), highly crystalline, and high purity. The present nano LDH undergoes a transformation to Li-Al MMO with a high specific surface area (349 m2 g−1) of abundant strong basic sites. Indeed, the present Li-Al MMO exhibits an enhanced catalytic activity for a transesterification reaction between methanol and soybean oil compared to one prepared through a co-precipitation method, thanks to the larger amount of active sites. [Display omitted] • High specific surface area Li-Al layered double hydroxide (nano LDH) is obtained. • Crystal growth of nano LDH from a hydroxide nanoseed is proposed. • Nano LDH transforms into a mixed metal oxide catalyst with an enhanced basicity. • Enhanced catalytic activity for a transesterification has been achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]