Social enterprise sector in Baltic states

Purpose - This paper presents the overview of the functions of social enterprises (SEs), which are important for sustainable development of Baltic region. The research describes different concepts and brings out the main problems in Baltic states. The priority of any social enterprise is a social goal or the creation of social values instead of profit-earning. To achieve the social goal, it is important to involve target groups of society in social enterprises. Design / methodology / theoretical approach – Scientific references, the method of analysis and synthesis, logical, comparative analysis, experts’ view analysis. Findings – Analyzing social enterprises in Baltic States, it can be said that forms of social enterprises are different. State social policy determines the creation of social enterprises and their development trends. Social enterprises can help solve social and economical problems, because it promotes employment of people who lost their professional and general capacity to work. The employment of these persons is supported by the state. Practical implications – The present study promote cooperation between the Baltic States, sharing of best practices in the field of social business and encourage employing people who lost their professional and general capacity and they are unable to compete on equal terms in the labor market. Originality / Value – The Europe 2020 strategy emphasize that social enterprises are very useful to the society as an important element of the social economy. Europe should promote the creation of social enterprises and use their growth potential, entrepreneurship to create social values. The development of social enterprises is very important not just for the local communities, but also for entire state social policy. Ease the burden on the national budget for the welfare system