The goal of the competition is to promote civic engagement, recognize the most dedicated organizations, and showcase best practices implemented for the benefit of Starachowice residents. The competition also aims to encourage new community initiatives, foster cross-sector collaboration, and strengthen local social capital.

- Non-governmental organizations play an extremely important role in the life of our city. It is thanks to their commitment that many social, sports, educational, and community-building initiatives are carried out. The “AkTYwator 2026” competition is a way to recognize the individuals and organizations that work every day for the benefit of Starachowice’s residents, - emphasizes Marcin Gołębiowski, Deputy Mayor of Starachowice for Social Affairs.
Who can participate?
Non-governmental organizations and entities engaged in public benefit activities may apply to participate in the competition if they:
- are based in Starachowice,
- carry out activities for the benefit of the city’s residents,
- have implemented initiatives or events that were completed in 2025,
- Each organization may enter only one competition category.
Three Competition Categories
The organizer has established three categories:
Active Sports
This category includes initiatives that promote physical activity, a healthy lifestyle, and community integration through sports and recreation.
Active Community
This category is aimed at organizations carrying out activities that strengthen social engagement, foster the development of civic initiatives and volunteerism, and promote the integration of the local community.
Active Seniors
This category is dedicated to initiatives that support the activity, integration, and development of older adults, build intergenerational relationships, and improve the quality of life for seniors.
How Will Applications Be Evaluated?
Evaluations will be conducted by a specially appointed Competition Committee. In the first stage, the applications will be reviewed for formal compliance. Subsequently, projects will be evaluated based on their impact on the local community, the level of community engagement, the scale of the initiative, and the effective use of local resources.
Application Deadline
To participate, applicants must submit an application form to the Starachowice City Hall. The deadline for submissions is June 19, 2026.
Winners will be announced during the Non-Governmental Organizations Gala
The results of the competition will be announced during the 1st Non-Governmental Organizations Gala in Starachowice, organized as part of the “AkTYwne Miasto. Together for the Development of Starachowice” project. The committee will select the first-, second-, and third-place winners in each category. Winners will receive trophies, certificates, and other honorary awards.
The “AkTYwator 2026” contest aims to showcase the many valuable initiatives carried out by non-governmental organizations in Starachowice and the significant impact they have on the development of the local community.
The project "Active City. Together for the Development of Starachowice" supported by the Swiss Contribution to reducing economic and social disparities in the European Union, and the state budget.

