While many companies are resuming in-person operations, a new wave of entrepreneurs is moving in the opposite direction: choosing to be born entirely digital. Far from being counterintuitive, this decision is supported by changes in people's lifestyles and the technological transformation of small Brazilian businesses.
According to a Sebrae survey, 76% of micro and small entrepreneurs will use computers in their activities in 2025, the highest rate in a decade and six percentage points higher than in 2022. Furthermore, 47% already use management software and applications, a 20-percentage-point increase since 2018. These figures reveal that digitalization is no longer a trend but has become a strategic pillar of competitiveness.
While the general market is still flirting with the hybrid model, it is in this scenario that models such as Spaceclass emerge, a franchise network specializing in language teaching created in 2022. Completely digital and with live classes, the company was born with the proposal of re-signifying English learning in Brazil. With a methodology focused on conversation and an algorithm that connects students with similar professional profiles and areas of interest, the brand proposes fluency in up to three years.
Fewer costs, more time
The online format proved to be not only viable, but scalable: in 2024, Spaceclass became a franchise, today it has 37 units and plans to end 2025 with 100 franchisees in Brazil and abroad.
"The digital 100% model allows us to grow without geographical barriers, offering standardization and quality, cutting costs, in addition to keeping up with how people already interact with technology and education in their daily lives," highlights Raphael Brito, CEO and co-founder of Spaceclass.
Businesses born in the digital realm achieve greater time optimization and agility in adapting to new tools, in addition to reducing fixed costs such as space rental and a greater possibility of expanding the brand, like Spaceclass, which has franchisees in seven Brazilian states, as well as the United States and Finland:
"The remote format has consolidated itself because it aligns with people's routines, who already consume information and work while connected. The flexibility of hours and the possibility of learning from anywhere greatly increase student engagement. When we talk about learning another language, for example, online allows for the creation of personalized classes, bringing together similar profiles and accelerating progress," said the CEO.
