Encouraging the development of good ideas also helps with entry into the corporate world.

With nearly 50 million entrepreneurs, Brazil has become a country of micro and small business owners. The percentage of young Brazilians who have decided to start their own business has been growing in recent years. According to Sebrae, in 2017 the number of people aged 18 to 34 among early-stage entrepreneurs rose from 50% to 57%. The number of entrepreneurs who started a business because they saw an opportunity, not out of necessity, also increased, from 57% to 59%.

The profile of the Brazilian entrepreneur, however, is still poorly educated. Almost 8 million established entrepreneurs, those considered consolidated in the market, have not completed high school. Within this same group, 2 million have completed higher education. The most educated entrepreneurs, who represent the smallest portion of this universe, have the greatest opportunities to achieve business success.

The role of universities in training entrepreneurs has been changing over the last few years. While a few decades ago, securing a position in a private company or pursuing a career in public service were the natural paths for those graduating from higher education, today starting one's own business is considered a valid idea. Technological advancements have expanded the possibilities for success in the corporate world. In the last six years, the number of startups, companies characterized by innovation, has more than doubled, according to the Brazilian Association of Startups (ABStartups). In this segment, the percentage of young entrepreneurs – between 25 and 40 years old – jumps to 72% of the total.

Preparing to Innovate

The outlook for those working in innovation and technology is positive. Investment in Brazilian startups grew by 207% last year, according to data from LAVCA (Latin American Venture Capital Association). The first Brazilian unicorns, a term used to designate startups that become worth more than US$ 1 billion, emerged this year: the 99 Taxi app and Nubank, a financial services company.

However, to enter the market, it's necessary to be prepared. Knowledge of the sector in which you will operate and business planning are fundamental points for anyone wishing to start a business. Training that combines theory and practice is ideal for those seeking to undertake and innovate. Regardless of the course of study, it's important that certain skills are developed. Universities with infrastructure geared towards innovation should be equipped to support the development of students' ideas.

In ESEG, The Lite – Technological Innovation Laboratory – is available to students for the construction of projects and prototypes. Multidisciplinary training makes all the difference when it comes to entrepreneurship, since process and financial management is essential for the viability and survival of a business. Students in the following courses... Administration, Production Engineering e Computer Engineering Students at ESEG learn that the success of any business, whether their own or not, depends on research, planning, and technical and operational knowledge.

In the job market, an entrepreneurial attitude is admired by recruiters. Being committed to company results and being proactive are some of the characteristics that an entrepreneur and a sought-after professional have in common. Employees who present new ideas that represent an increase in company productivity are well regarded in corporate environments and have a better chance of promotion.