The processes of modernization and globalization promote development and promote the progress of society, however, social risks such as unemployment, poverty and social exclusion still remain a significant problem, whereby people with disabilities are one of the extremely vulnerable groups that face numerous obstacles that prevent their participation in society on an equal basis compared to others. Ecological theory or the theory of human development connects the mentioned problems by observing them as a consequence of the influences of micro, meso, exo and macro systems on the individual at the center of the system. A factor that contributes to the improvement of the quality of life of people with disabilities and their financial independence is the achievement of work status, which concerns the exosystem that is mutually influenced by other systems. The employment of persons with disabilities is carried out within the framework of various models, of which Croatia recognizes employment on the open labor market and employment through protective and integrative workshops, which actually represent the forerunner of work integration social enterprises and represent an important aspect of connecting the social and economic mission on which social entrepreneurship is based. With their specific approach, WISEs take on the role of a catalyst for change in the way people with disabilities are employed, and they need to be developed in accordance with good practice examples and experiences of other European countries.