34

According to a study of six MENA countries, the social and solidarity economy (SSE) includes both for-profit and non-profit entities, cooperatives, associations, and mutuals. Their legal frameworks and economic impact, especially in terms of employment and GDP contribution, are surveyed. Both endogenous and exogenous funding, such as personal savings and grants, are the major sources of public economic enterprises, which face structural deficiencies in the banking system and a lack of tailored financial products that the microfinance industry should overcome. The SSE, including microfinance institutions, also plays a role in formalizing both informal businesses and employees, as well as triggering job creation, especially for young people and women.