Discovering New Horizons. Economic Impact Of The Third Sector In Croatia

The main objective of the paper is to analyse the impact of the third sector in Croatia, insufficiently investigated so far. Firstly, we shall look into the aspects of economic impact of the aforementioned sector and present the current considerations regarding this impact in the Croatian context. Further on, we shall focus on results acquired through qualitative research design that included the analysis of the sector development framework and on the interviews with key stakeholders in the third sector. Economic impact is considered in several dimensions. Respondents regard the size of the third sector as being important. The impact on employment and the access to labour market for disadvantaged groups are evident, but further steps and developments are expected. Results suggest that the third sector is the potential for developing a new kind of entrepreneurship that would focus on the common good. It is also the grounds for thinking about economics and economic relations. Respondents also recognize that the sector has an economic impact on the local community where it is actively involved and has the multiplier effect. Results are discussed in light of the current development trends in Croatia, economic relations and the role of the third sector. Finally, the conclusion refers to the potential of the third sector to develop economic impacts on inclusive and sustainable society.