In 2023, the European Commission’s Strategy on Web 4.0 and Virtual Worlds outlined a comprehensive roadmap to ensure that these emerging technologies benefit Europe while evolving in line with its values. These immersive digital environments, where physical and virtual realities increasingly converge, are set to transform how businesses operate, how consumers engage, and how innovation is brought to market. The Strategy also highlights the importance of shaping global standards for open and interoperable virtual worlds and Web 4.0, ensuring that they will not be dominated by a few big players.

For European SMEs, this technological shift presents both significant opportunities and challenges. From immersive training to remote healthcare, from AI-enhanced industrial processes to new virtual marketplaces, Web 4.0 opens a new frontier of economic activity. But to benefit, SMEs must understand the rules of the game —through standardisation, regulation, and policy.

Organised by the collaboration between the European DIGITAL SME Alliance and Small Business Standards, this webinar will introduce participants to the key concepts behind Web 4.0 and Virtual Worlds, the European Commission’s strategic goals, and the current landscape of international and European standardisation efforts. While large tech players are already shaping this future, SME involvement remains critically low. Without meaningful awareness and participation, there is a risk that standards will not reflect the needs, values, or market conditions of EU-based SMEs.