EU AI Act

EU AI Act: obligations for SMBs

2 articles

The EU AI Act sets new rules for any business that builds or uses AI systems. If your company uses AI tools for customer service, hiring, or marketing, these regulations apply to you too. This category breaks down the obligations, timelines, and practical steps SMBs can take to get ready.

Frequently asked questions

Does the EU AI Act apply to small businesses?

Yes, if you use or provide AI systems. The AI Act focuses on risk level, not company size. If you run an AI chatbot for customer support or use AI-based screening in recruitment, you have obligations regardless of how many employees you have.

When does the EU AI Act take effect?

The law was adopted in 2024 and is being rolled out in phases. Prohibited AI practices apply from February 2025. Most other obligations kick in from August 2026. Now is the time to audit which AI tools your business relies on.

What should SMBs do now to prepare for the AI Act?

List every AI tool your organisation uses and figure out which risk category each falls into. Document the purpose and impact of each system. That inventory tells you exactly what compliance steps you need to take once enforcement begins.

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