From “Protech” to online education: These are the most promising industries to thrive in 2025

As global markets evolve, industries leveraging innovation and adaptability are poised to thrive in 2025. From integrating advanced technologies in real estate to the expanding digital frontiers of education, e-commerce, and more, these sectors are a testament to the transformative potential of technology and changing consumer demands.

Real Estate Technology (Proptech)

Property technology, also known as PropTech, Retech, Realtech or Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Tech, merges real estate with technology. It uses tools like artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and blockchain to enhance various aspects of the real estate industry, including buying, selling, marketing, and property management.

The 2000s saw the early disruption of the real estate industry by online marketplaces that allowed properties to be showcased digitally. This transformation has been continued by PropTech companies like Zillow, Zoopla, and Airbnb, while property management systems such as Buildium and Appfolio have drastically improved operations for residential, office, and retail properties.

PropTech intersects with other sectors, such as Shared Economy Real Estate, exemplified by platforms like Airbnb and WeWork, which facilitate shared or joint property usage. Another subsector, Smart Real Estate, leverages Internet of Things (IoT) devices for remote monitoring and management, with innovations like Siemens’ smart kitchen appliances and Philips’ intelligent lighting systems leading the way.

The PropTech industry continues to expand rapidly. In 2022, the global market was valued at $19.5 billion, with projections reaching $32.2 billion by 2030.

Cybersecurity

Every year, numerous countries across the world experience major losses due to cybercrime. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to these attacks, with companies employing less than 100 people facing 350% more social engineering attacks, including phishing, compared to larger enterprises.

Cyberattacks continued to cause significant disruptions across all industries in 2024, with hackers stealing vast amounts of personal data, often for resale or extortion. Healthcare, once considered “off-limits,” has become a prime target, as evidenced by attacks on the UK’s NHS, Planned Parenthood, and Change Healthcare.

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center reports that U.S. company losses to cybercriminals rose from $4.2 billion in 2020 to $12.5 billion in 2023. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable, experiencing 350% more social engineering attacks like phishing than larger enterprises.

The increasing prevalence of cybercrime drives demand for robust cybersecurity tools, creating opportunities for companies offering protection against threats like phishing, ransomware, and supply chain attacks. The cybersecurity market, valued at nearly $200 billion in 2024, is projected to reach $315 billion by 2029, making it an attractive investment prospect.

Online education

In 2025, education is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by artificial intelligence and the evolving demands of the modern workforce. The traditional approach of concentrating education during youth no longer aligns with a society characterized by rapid change. Emotional intelligence and communication skills, often underemphasized in traditional models, are gaining prominence as machines assume routine technical tasks.

Demand for educational services is rising among diverse groups: professionals seeking to update skills, college students requiring tutoring, and high school students preparing for exams. The global educational market, valued at $1.3 trillion in 2023, is projected to nearly double to $2.4 trillion by 2032. Concurrently, companies are increasingly investing in digital tools, prompting employees to engage in lifelong learning and upskilling initiatives.

Online education is emerging as a leading industry in 2025, particularly within healthcare and health-related sectors. Digital learning platforms are enhancing access to education and fostering collaborative environments. Revenue in this sector is projected to reach $269.79 billion by 2031, highlighting its potential for growth. As technology advances, this sector presents significant opportunities for investors aiming to capitalize on the expanding demand for innovative, flexible, and accessible educational solutions.

iGaming

iGaming is an umbrella term covering various online gambling activities. Through platforms like Bitcasino, for example, users can play Thimbles and classic games, such as poker, roulette, and slots.

These iGaming sites leverage advanced technologies such as live-streaming, random number generators, and blockchain to offer secure, interactive experiences to players worldwide. Mobile gaming apps and user-friendly interfaces have driven accessibility and popularity, attracting a growing customer base.

The sector is heavily regulated, with licensing requirements varying by region, ensuring transparency and consumer protection. Revenue in the Online Gambling market is projected to reach $97.27 billion in 2024. Annual growth is expected at 6.46% (CAGR 2024-2029), with the market reaching $133.00 billion by 2029.

E-commerce marketplaces and online stores

The rise of e-commerce can largely be attributed to companies like Amazon, which revolutionized online shopping and set the standard for modern e-commerce practices. Founded in 1994 as an online bookstore, Amazon quickly expanded its offerings to include virtually every category of goods. Its focus on customer-centric features, such as personalized recommendations, fast shipping, and a seamless user experience, helped establish e-commerce as a viable and preferred alternative to traditional retail.

Amazon’s innovations, such as the introduction of Amazon Prime and fulfillment centers optimized with advanced logistics technologies, have played a pivotal role in shaping consumer expectations for speed and convenience. The company also pioneered the marketplace model, enabling third-party sellers to reach millions of customers through its platform. This approach democratized e-commerce, allowing small businesses to thrive alongside established brands.

While Amazon is a dominant force, other companies, including eBay, Alibaba, Shopify and, most recently, Temu, have also significantly contributed to the e-commerce boom. Each introduced unique business models and solutions, from auction-style sales to platforms that empower individual entrepreneurs to build their online stores. Together, these companies have driven the evolution of e-commerce, a sector now projected to generate over $6 trillion in global sales by 2024, with continued growth anticipated through 2027.

In conclusion

The rapid growth of these industries underscores their resilience and adaptability. With technology driving innovation across PropTech, cybersecurity, online education, iGaming sites like Bitcasino, and e-commerce, they represent some of the most promising areas for investment and development in 2025.