Klaus Schwab
As the Fourth Industrial Revolution paves the way for greater technological integration, we stand on the brink of the Intelligent Age, an era defined by blending artificial intelligence (AI) and cutting-edge technologies into everyday life. Yet amid this sweeping transformation, we are confronted with a profound paradox: The same technologies that hold extraordinary promise for unprecedented growth, innovation, and human progress also risk deepening divides and exacerbating inequalities. For the Intelligent Age to truly deliver on its potential, we must urgently confront one of its most critical challenges: ensuring digital inclusion for all.
Since its inception in 2021, The EDISON Alliance, a World Economic Forum initiative together with 170 partners, has successfully connected over 1 billion people globally—ahead of its initial 2025 target—to essential digital services in healthcare, education, and finance in over 100 countries. This progress spans over 100 countries, with notable advancements in South Asia and Africa. This remarkable milestone is a testament to the positive impact that can be achieved through the power of public-private partnerships in addressing the global digital divide.
Despite this remarkable success, the global digital divide remains vast. Achieving universal internet access by 2030 is projected to cost $446 billion, according to the Tony Blair Institute. While this may seem like a high price tag, such an investment could deliver $8.7 trillion in benefits to developing countries. A return on investment exceeding 1,800% is a compelling opportunity that any investor should be eager to pursue.
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