Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, in a written answer on 1 July 2026, detailed the European Commission's efforts to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the creative manufacturing sector comply with the AI Act, addressing concerns over skills gaps, regulatory uncertainty, and access to support tools. The answer responds to a question from MEPs Stefano Cavedagna and Francesco Torselli (both ECR), who noted that AI uptake among EU SMEs (13%) lags far behind large companies (41%) and that creative manufacturing firms face particular challenges.
Virkkunen pointed to several concrete measures already in place or under development. Guidelines on prohibited AI practices and AI system definition were adopted in February 2025, while drafts on transparency obligations and high-risk AI classification are open for public consultation. Further guidelines under Article 96 of the AI Act are in preparation. For SMEs, the Commission is developing templates for AI regulatory sandbox applications and a guidebook tailored to their needs, in cooperation with the AI Board. The AI Skills Academy, an EU-funded project, will support upskilling in cultural and creative industries through on-the-job training and curated course lists per sector and job profile.
On access to European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs), Virkkunen emphasised their role as first points of contact for businesses, offering practical guidance on the AI Act and linking SMEs to testing facilities and AI factories. The AI Office, together with Member States, will continue coordinating implementation, including through the AI Board and forthcoming implementing acts. The answer provides timelines for some tools but remains vague on specific deadlines for the remaining Article 96 guidelines, which are still 'in preparation'.
The measures aim to reduce compliance costs and uncertainty for creative manufacturing SMEs, potentially boosting AI adoption. However, the lack of firm deadlines for key guidelines may prolong uncertainty for businesses. EDIHs and the AI Skills Academy could improve skills and access, but their effectiveness depends on Member State implementation and funding. Larger companies, already ahead in AI uptake, may benefit less from these targeted SME measures.