Skopje, 19 November 2021 (MIA) – The first national center for social enterprises, seen as an incubator for support of existing and new social enterprises and civil society organizations, opened in Skopje on Friday. Enterprises, organizations, initiatives and citizens will have a broad specter of services and activities at disposal, such as workshops for exchange of experiences and knowledge, direct support for capacity building, formal and informal education and training, business training, mentoring, event planning and other services. Center beneficiaries will receive guidelines, advice and assistance on practical issues and challenges on a daily basis, such as collection of funds, registration of companies, networking opportunities, business development, employment, procurement, building partnerships, financial support, marketing etc. EU-funded project “Support to Social Enterprises” is implemented by Eptisa, in cooperation with the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy. Minister of Labor and Social Policy Jagoda Shahpaska said the key role of social enterprises is to ensure rehabilitation and reintegration at the labor market, safe and stable future for persons who have difficulties in getting a job, socially vulnerable persons, former addicts, former inmates and persons with disabilities. “All these vulnerable groups get a chance through the social enterprises to be involved in the community, earn a living and contribute to the development of the local and national economy. Therefore, we need measures and solutions that will improve their working conditions and create direct and indirect benefits for the society. This means change in the legislation, state support programmes and selection of a model of organization,” said Shahpaska. Deputy PM for Economic Affairs Fatmir Bytyqi said the Government is committed to creating a society of solidarity for all. “Social entrepreneurship means businesses that create positive change in society besides generating profit. In addition, they carry social-democratic values in daily operations. This Government has recognized the potential and the need for social entrepreneurship, our policies are oriented towards its integration in the economy. The National Strategy for Social Enterprises was adopted on September 28, a tool that will help us monitor the development of social entrepreneurship in the country,” said Bytyqi. EU Delegation Head of Cooperation Steffen Hudolin congratulated everyone involved in the center’s opening. “All institutions have shown cohesion and cooperation. Our social economy is humane economy that protects us from the big life risks, diseases, accidents and poverty. This center creates opportunities for growth, development and support of social enterprises in North Macedonia,” noted Hudolin.