With the expansion of internet access and the use of digital platforms, millions of Brazilians have found opportunities for training, entrepreneurship, and integration into the digital market. According to the 2024 TIC Domicílios survey, 84% of the population is connected, and 74% use the internet for professional or educational activities, demonstrating how connectivity is becoming a bridge to economic and social development.
However, this progress is not limited to income generation. It represents a concrete opportunity to address historical inequalities by expanding access to resources that were previously restricted to a portion of the population. For this potential to be fully realized, investments in digital infrastructure, professional training, and technologies that involve the active participation of everyone in the connected economy are essential.
How does digital inclusion create income opportunities?
The internet has opened doors that once seemed inaccessible. Working from anywhere, earning extra income as a freelancer, or even turning a hobby into a business has become a reality for many. Those who need flexibility or face challenges in the traditional market find a more democratic space online. Online entrepreneurship has also become simpler and cheaper, as all it takes is a smartphone and a good idea to get started. Social media platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have become monetization platforms, while e-commerce continues to grow and create new horizons.
But having internet access is not enough—you need to know how to use it to your advantage. Digital learning platforms offer practical courses that help develop skills valued in the market, making it easier to change careers or seek an additional source of income. Moreover, strategies like affiliate marketing and referral programs allow anyone to earn money by connecting consumers to products and services. With more knowledge and tools within reach, the path to financial independence becomes increasingly accessible.
Edtechs play a crucial role in this transformation. In addition to providing training, many partner with companies to connect professionals with real opportunities. Projects aimed at underserved communities ensure access to devices and connectivity, enabling more people to participate in the digital economy. Ultimately, digital inclusion is not just about technology—it’s about providing equal opportunities for everyone to grow, innovate, and achieve a better life.
Challenges and pathways
There are still barriers in the way. Without adequate infrastructure, millions of people lack quality internet access, limiting work, learning, and growth. Data from the 2024 TIC Domicílios survey reveals that 29 million Brazilians still do not have internet access, highlighting the challenges of digital inclusion in the country. Even among regular internet users, only 22% have ‘meaningful connectivity,’ which considers factors like frequency of use, connection quality, access to adequate devices, and digital skills.
In other words, a lack of training also prevents many from taking advantage of what technology has to offer. At the same time, the rise in virtual transactions brings new risks, such as financial scams, making digital security a priority. Without effective public policies, digital inequalities tend to deepen.
On the other hand, technological advancements continue to pave the way forward. Artificial intelligence already enables individuals and businesses to focus on more strategic tasks, while digital businesses are structured around data and automation. Online education breaks geographical barriers and expands access to knowledge, and new monetization methods, such as the creative economy and NFTs, are opening pathways for income generation.
E-commerce is another area that is consolidating, democratizing digital entrepreneurship. Models like dropshipping and affiliate marketing make it easier for entrepreneurs to enter the market. Freelance work is growing, connecting professionals to opportunities anywhere in the world.
When connectivity, training, and security go hand in hand, the digital realm ceases to be a privilege and becomes a vector of transformation. The future of the economy depends on the active participation of everyone in this environment, and true financial empowerment emerges when technology is put at the service of equity.
*In 2017, at just 24 years old, Laila Martins founded the edtech Saber em Rede, serving as CEO ever since. In just five years, she grew the company from zero to a valuation of 50 million reais. Driven by innovation in reaching new students and valuing the academic community, Laila founded the startup with the purpose of spreading education and enabling people to innovate in this process. Active in the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, she has been a mentor in acceleration programs at the Brazilian Startups Association, SEBRAE, and Inovativa since 2020. In 2023, Laila joined other entrepreneurs to found a Venture Builder, X5 Ventures, to foster the innovation and investment ecosystem in the country.
