This research study has the advantage of coming out from an evident reality - the establishment and functioning, although at an embryonic stage, of social enterprises in Albania. Even in the absence of legal recognition, many Albanian Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have set up real social enterprises, with all the features outlined in the recent European Documents1 .
The social enterprise is part of a broader framework of social economy which involves the civil society in creation of economic and social value. The relevant framework and data are not yet revealed by the public institutions and does not appear in official statistics, however, the government has recognized the contribution of CSOs, especially those providing quality social, or education services. In this sense, there are many examples of public - private partnership that, with the strengthening of local autonomy, are expected to increase in volume and importance.