Subject. This article explores and discusses the features of innovation-based development of the economy. Objectives. The article aims to consider the issues of the development of the digital economy of the Karagandy Province and Kazakhstan. Methods. For the study, I used the statistical analysis and comparative methods. Results. The article substantiates the objective necessity to involve specialists to assess the socio-economic impact of the digitization of the economy and develop specific standards and regulations. Conclusions. Irresponsible attitudes towards the development of the digital economy can have a detrimental effect on the human personality and socio-psychological climate in society. Industry 4.0 leads to a new type of jobs, which imposes new demands on education and training.