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 and innovation efforts.
AGENDA
Moderator: Gabriele Casalini – Tech Project Officer, European DIGITAL SME Alliance
14:00 – 14:05 Opening & Introduction – Welcome by DIGITAL SME
Speaker: Justina Bieliauskaite – Innovation Director, European DIGITAL SME Alliance
14:05 – 14:20 Keynote Presentation – The EU’s Strategy for Web 4.0 and Virtual Worlds
Speaker: Anne Bajart – Deputy Head of Unit, European Commission, DG CONNECT
14:20 – 15:10 Panel Discussion:
Standards and Innovation in Web 4.0 and Virtual Worlds
Speakers (TBC):
- Christoph Runde – Managing Director at Virtual Dimension Centre (VDC) Fellbach
- Ismael Arribas – CEO at Kunfud
- Lluïsa Marsal – Business Development Lead at NUNSYS, Standardisation Expert
- Michael Barngrover – Managing Director at XR4Europe
15:10 – 15:15 Web 4.0 and Virtual Worlds Standardisation: how to participate and relevant opportunities
Speaker: Gabriele Casalini – Tech Project Officer, European DIGITAL SME Alliance
