São Paulo Launches Free Online AI Course to Empower Entrepreneurs
The São Paulo government has introduced a free, flexible AI course to help entrepreneurs harness artificial intelligence for business growth and efficiency.
- • São Paulo’s Qualifica SP offers a free online AI course called 'IA para Todos' in partnership with StartSe.
- • The course consists of four modules with lessons up to 30 minutes, aimed at micro and small business owners and professionals.
- • Experts stress the importance of strategic AI use aligned with business needs to maximize value.
- • Completion of the course provides certification from StartSe, helping participants in employment and entrepreneurship.
Key details
The São Paulo Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico (SDE), through its Qualifica SP program, has launched "IA para Todos," a free online artificial intelligence (AI) training course designed to help entrepreneurs optimize their businesses using AI technology. Created in partnership with StartSe, the course targets micro and small business owners, students, teachers, and professionals seeking career shifts, aiming to enhance productivity and sales through AI applications.
The course is structured into four modules with lessons lasting up to 30 minutes, allowing for flexible learning. The initial module focuses on demystifying AI concepts, while subsequent modules concentrate on practical uses and integrating AI into daily business operations. Participants who complete the program will receive certification from StartSe. Fernanda de Araújo, a StartSe partner and head of AI Academy, highlighted that AI knowledge has rapidly transitioned from being a differentiating skill in 2025 to a current job market requirement.
While a Sebrae study reveals that 30% of micro and small businesses have no difficulties in AI use, challenges remain in applying AI strategically. Experts at Reload 2026, a digital marketing and AI event supported by Sebrae Minas, emphasized that successful AI adoption requires aligning technology deployment with a company’s specific pain points and business goals. Silvio Meira, Chief Scientist at TDS, warned against indiscriminate AI use without understanding core business issues. Retail innovation expert Caio Camargo urged entrepreneurs to focus on mastering a single technology deeply rather than spreading themselves thin across many AI tools.
This initiative reflects the growing need for digital transformation among Brazil's smaller enterprises. It provides an accessible entry point for entrepreneurs to embrace AI, helping them stay competitive in a market increasingly driven by technological innovation and digital marketing strategies.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
