Colombia’s digital future is increasingly being shaped by young people who are using technology for entrepreneurship, civic participation, content creation and innovation. However, experts warn that expanding internet access alone is not enough to ensure that all communities benefit from the digital economy.
Meaningful connectivity requires digital skills, access to decent employment opportunities, support for entrepreneurship, safe online environments and participation in decisions that shape the digital landscape. Without addressing existing territorial, gender and social inequalities, digital expansion risks leaving many communities behind.
Recent data highlights this challenge. While internet use among Colombian youth is widespread, online activity does not always translate into economic opportunities. According to international connectivity data, 92 percent of young people use digital platforms for social networking, but only 46 percent use them for online learning and just 9 percent use them for job searches or applications.
Colombia has already made progress in developing digital talent. Programmes such as SENATIC have trained more than 200,000 people, with women representing over half of participants. The next challenge is ensuring that this growing digital workforce can access employment, markets and business opportunities, especially in regions such as the Pacific and Caribbean where infrastructure gaps and limited economic networks remain barriers.
Young Colombians are already creating solutions through technology. From digital entrepreneurship and grassroots innovation to civic technology projects, youth are demonstrating how digital tools can support social and economic development. However, many talented young people in underserved regions still face difficulties turning digital skills into sustainable opportunities.
The Inclusive Digital Transformation Facility (IDTF) was created to address this gap by connecting digital access with employment, entrepreneurship and civic participation. Supported through international partnerships and implemented with the United Nations system in Colombia, the initiative focuses on ensuring that connectivity becomes a pathway to meaningful economic inclusion.
In 2026, the programme engaged young people through major digital and entrepreneurship events, including Colombia’s leading digital transformation gatherings. These activities encouraged participants to explore future scenarios, identify barriers to digital inclusion and develop ideas for creating a more accessible digital economy.
Discussions with youth leaders, technology experts, civil society organizations and international partners highlighted key priorities, including improving digital education, connecting talent with employers and creating stronger pathways for young entrepreneurs.
A major focus of the initiative is supporting communities outside Colombia’s main urban centres. By prioritising regions such as the Pacific and Caribbean, the programme aims to ensure that digital transformation reaches areas that have historically experienced fewer opportunities for investment, training and innovation.
The effort reflects a broader shift in how countries approach digital development. Connectivity is increasingly viewed not only as access to technology but as a foundation for employment, entrepreneurship, social participation and inclusive growth.
As Colombia continues its digital transformation journey, empowering young people with skills, opportunities and a voice in technology policy will be essential to building a digital economy that benefits communities across the country.
