This study arises out of the need to deepen - with a special regard to Tuscany - the many analysis cues that the nonprofit sector offers both in a theoretic and in an operating way (i.e., its pursued mission and acquitted functions, its relation with local government institutions and the market, organizing and industrial description, occupational impact and expressed job demand). These aspects have been measured by means of a questionnaire, which was distributed to a representative sample of nonprofit organizations in Tuscany. The collected data allow the definition of an interpretative course that explains the nonprofit sector’s arising, development, potentials, and limits in a restricted area such as Tuscany.