Abstract - EN
While the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) has existed since time immemorial, its value to the functioning of economies and societies has taken on new meaning since the start of the new millennium. Examining the practices of co-operatives, self-help groups, and social enterprises this entry examines how its institutions, and its activities collectively function to support and sustain local communities in times of crisis, the contexts within which they are successful, and the challenges that they face as they are called upon to play an expanded role.