With the expansion of internet access and the use of digital platforms, millions of Brazilians have found training opportunities, entrepreneurship and insertion in the digital market. According to the TIC Domicílios 2024 survey, 84% of the population is connected and 74% use the network for professional or educational activities, what highlights how connectivity has been consolidating as a bridge for economic and social development
This advance, however, is not limited to generating income. It represents a concrete chance to confront historical inequalities, expanding access to resources that were previously restricted to a portion of citizens. For such potential to be fully realized, it is necessary to invest in digital infrastructure, professional training and in technologies that involve the active participation of everyone in the connected economy
How digital inclusion creates income opportunities
The internet opened doors that once seemed inaccessible. Work from anywhere, making extra income as a freelancer or even turning a hobby into a business has become a reality for many people. Those who need flexibility or face difficulties in the traditional market find in the digital space a more democratic environment. Starting an online business has also become simpler and cheaper, given that all it takes is a phone and a good idea to get started. Social networks like YouTube, TikTok and Instagram have become monetization platforms, while e-commerce continues to grow and create new horizons
But it's not enough to have access to the internet, it is necessary 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 extra source of income. Moreover, strategies such as affiliate marketing and referral programs allow anyone to make money by connecting consumers to products and services. With more knowledge and tools at hand, the path to financial independence is becoming increasingly accessible
And edtechs play an essential role in this transformation. In addition to providing training, many create partnerships with companies to bring professionals closer to real perspectives. Projects aimed at underprivileged communities ensure access to devices and connectivity, allowing more people to participate in the digital economy. In the end, digital inclusion is not just about technology — it's about giving equal opportunities for everyone to grow, to undertake and achieve a better life
Challenges and paths
There are still barriers in the way. Without adequate infrastructure, millions of people still lack access to quality internet, what limits work, learning and growth. Data from the TIC Domiciles survey 2024 reveals that 29 million Brazilians still do not have access to the internet, what reinforces the challenges of digital inclusion in the country. And even among those who use the network regularly, only 22% have "significant connectivity", that considers factors such as frequency of use, connection quality, access to suitable devices and digital skills
That is to say, the lack of training also prevents many from taking advantage of what technology has to offer. At the same time, the increase in virtual transactions brings new risks, like financial scams, making digital security a priority. Without effective public policies, digital inequalities tend to deepen
On the other hand, technological advances continue to pave roads for us to travel. Artificial intelligence already enables people and companies to focus on more strategic tasks, while digital businesses are structured based on data and automation. Online education breaks down geographical barriers and expands access to knowledge, and new forms of monetization, how the creative economy and NFTs, are opening paths for income generation
E-commerce is another that consolidates, 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 safety go hand in hand, the digital 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 arises when technology is put to the service of equity
*Em 2017, at just 24 years old, Laila Martins fundou a edtech Saber em Rede, serving as CEO since then. And, in just five years, took 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 engage in this process. Active in the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, the executive has been acting as a mentor in the acceleration programs of the Brazilian Startups Association since 2020, SEBRAE and Inovativa. In 2023, Laila also joined other entrepreneurs to found a Venture Builder, a X5 Ventures, to foster the innovation and investment ecosystem in the country.
