The Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation on Thursday announced 10 cities in the county as finalists for its annual most business-friendly city award.

The LAEDC named the cities of Compton, Downey, Inglewood, Lakewood and Long Beach as finalists for cities with at least 68,000 in population.

The economic development nonprofit named Arcadia, Azusa, Monrovia, Rosemead and Santa Fe Springs as finalists among cities with fewer than 68,000 people.

The finalist cities were selected through independent review by a panel of judges based on several criteria, including: commitment to economic development; excellence in programs and services to attract, retain and expand businesses; competitive business tax rates and fee structures; and the availability of economic incentives.

One winner from each category will be announced live at the LAEDC’s 22nd annual Eddy Awards dinner Nov. 9 at the new Wilshire Grand tower in downtown.

Last year’s winners were Santa Clarita in the large city category and Pico Rivera for small cities.

Economy, education, energy and transportation reporter Howard Fine can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @howardafine.