The National Ranking of Municipalities and Counties is a free and voluntary competition conducted by the Association of Polish Counties. The winners are selected in the following categories:
- counties with up to 60,000 residents;
- counties with 60,000 to 120,000 residents;
- counties with more than 120,000 residents;
- cities with county rights;
- urban and urban-rural municipalities;
- rural municipalities.
When assessing local government units, experts from the Association of Polish Counties issue their opinions according to numerous criteria grouped into ten thematic areas, including:
- pro-investment and pro-development activities;
- solutions improving the quality of service for residents and the functioning of the local government unit;
- development of the information society;
- development of civil society;
- strengthening information security management systems;
- promotion of healthcare and social assistance solutions;
- supporting activities for the market economy;
- promotion of eco-energy and environmentally friendly solutions;
- national and international cooperation;
- promotional activities.
The order of the recognized entities depends on the results achieved by the local government and the activities carried out. The ranking is continuously updated online by experts and runs throughout the year. At the end of the year, the ranking leader receives the honorary title of Good Polish Local Government.