Disclosed are processes for preparing [(3-hydroxypyridine-2-carbonyl)amino]-alkanoic acids, derivatives, inter alia, 5-aryl substituted and 5-heteroaryl substituted [(3-hydroxypyridine-2-carbonyl]amino}acetic acids. Further disclosed are methods for making prodrugs of [(3-hydroxypyridine-2-carbonyl)-amino]acetic acids, for example, {[(3-hydroxypyridine-2-carbonyl]amino}acetic acid esters and {[3-hydroxypyridine-2-carbonyl]amino}acetic acid amides. The disclosed compounds are useful as prolyl hydroxylase inhibittors or for treating conditions wherein prolyl hydroxylase inhibition is desired.