Work

The role of digital technologies in promoting social innovation in tourism Brazilian companies

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Promoting social innovation and social entrepreneurship is key to building sustainable tourism destinations. In this way, entrepreneurship, through social innovation, aims to generate social impact to the detriment of financial benefits. Digital technologies can be important tools to support social innovation, as they enable new forms of cooperation, expanding social and innovative activities. In this sense, the aim of the study is to analyze entrepreneurship in the tourism sector, with an emphasis on good social innovation practices, and to explore the relevance of digital technologies in the creation and promotion innovation. Methodology: The empirical study used case study analysis and semi-structured interviews with five companies’ Brazilian tourism. Results and Discussions: The results show that these companies are committed to sustainable development, concerned with involving communities. About the use of digital technologies to foster social innovation, they play an important role. However, technical and financial obstacles are highlighted, as well as the effectiveness of the tools already in use. Conclusions: The digital technologies are crucial for social innovation, transcending communication boundaries and broadening the scope to promote sustainable development.

Source: European Public & Social Innovation Review

DOI: 10.31637/epsir-2026-1979

Authors: Michelle Maiurro, Zélia Breda, Filipa Brandão, Carlos Costa

Institution: University of Aveiro

Language: English

Topic: Innovation, Technology, and Society

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: diamond

Funders: Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, Research Unit on Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policies