The goal of the article is to determine the main factors of success in raising European funds by selected communes in eastern Poland. On the basis of performed in-depth studies in municipalities it was noted that the factors that made the studied communes effectively apply for EU funds were similar in all municipalities, regardless of type, level and location of development. It was, first of all, organizational efficiency of the offices, competence and knowledge of their workers and high-quality strategic planning. Everywhere special positions or teams of employees involved in the acquisition of EU funds were created. All municipalities have created current development strategies and current land use plans and on the basis of these documents the application for EU funds was performed. Also important is the strong engagement and consistency of employees and local leaders, including the mayors. An important factor of effectiveness is also the stability of management and climate of cooperation between the commune council and the mayor or president.

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