Digital technologies are becoming an integral part of every sphere of the everyday life of the modern world. Today it is difficult to imagine human activity without the help of electronic, computer network and many other important automated technologies. The digital environment has touched communication, production of goods, provision of services, performance of work, independent firms work. In connection with this, such a unique concept as "digital economy" appeared and originated. This article is devoted to the emergence of a new economic era-the era of the digital economy. The article discusses the nature and meaning of the concept "digital transformation of the economy" at the present stage of management; the development of global digital economies; the place of Russia is indicated in the international ratings of the digital economy. Information and communication technologies stand out as a key component of digital economy. The business benefits of digitization of the economy are considered: saving on resources, lowering the entrance threshold to business, mastering new products and technologies, reducing costs, the possibility of using new business models. Highlighted the challenges and threats that the digital economy brings with it: the possibility of fraud, the risks of information leakage, the threat of job cuts. The research results showed the need for digital transformation not only in human activities, but also in the manufacturing sector. It was proved that digital transformation is an integral part of the innovation management process.