While many large, national companies such as the appliance and furniture store Casa Bahia have emerged to capitalize on this growing consumer market, a significant number of local entrepreneurs have also been attracted by the financial and commercial potential that sustainable urbanization and growth has offered.

about 40% of favela inhabitants in rio dream of being the owner of their own business - of these, the majority want to set up shop in the community where they live, which shows how important the local economy is to favela entrepreneurs.

In light of this commercial climate, the government and social organizations continually host seminars, workshops and talks to promote entrepreneurship and support existing businesses.