The conceptual framework of the Third Sector

The third sector has long been researched and its structural and cultural characteristics have been highlighted rather clearly. Under the structural standpoint, we can notice: - The tendency toward a continuous internal diversification and specialization; - The rise in number of organizations characterized by high professional levels and managing capabilities; - The increase in networking skills, aimed at developing collaborative networks, both within the third sector and with other social actors (private companies, local agencies and so on). Culturally speaking, there are significant evidences about: - The presence of different associative cultures; - The contribution at the generation and dissemination of secondary social capital. Overall, there is an ever growing number of organizations which collaborate with other third sector agencies (but also with market and public ones); beside, many third sector organizations decide to connect each other in networks, mainly by creating multilevel organizations.