The underestimated opportunity: new business models
Despite the challenges, the Data Act also opens up significant opportunities, particularly for innovative companies and start-ups. Access to previously inaccessible data sources opens up entirely new possibilities.
For SMEs and start-ups
- Lower barriers to market entry in data-intensive sectors
- Development of innovative data-driven services without reliance on large platforms
- Access to industry data for AI and analytics applications
For established companies
- Differentiation through data-driven value-added services
- Partnerships with specialist third-party providers
- Efficiency gains through better use of data across the value chain
An example: A mechanical engineering firm can now collaborate with a specialist AI service provider that develops predictive maintenance solutions – based on machine data to which both partners have lawful access.
The phased rollout: What lies ahead
12 September 2025 marks not the end, but the beginning of a multi-year implementation process. Companies should prepare for the following milestones:
- 12 September 2025: Key provisions of the Data Act come into force
- 12 September 2026: Extended interoperability requirements for cloud services take effect
- 12 September 2027: Full implementation of data portability standards and retroactive application to long-term contracts
Companies should not rest on their laurels once they have met the initial requirements. The Data Act will become increasingly stringent in the coming years.
What companies should do now
The time for waiting and seeing is over. Companies that fail to act now risk not only sanctions but also competitive disadvantages. Specific recommendations for action:
Immediate measures
- Compliance check: Comprehensive review of all connected products and services for Data Act compliance
- Contract review: Analysis and amendment of existing contracts, particularly with regard to unfair terms
- Technical roadmap: Development of a plan for implementing the necessary data interfaces
Medium-term strategies
- Business model innovation: Development of new services that benefit from improved data access
- Partnerships: Collaborations with third-party providers to tap into the data ecosystem
- Change management: Training teams on Data Act requirements and new processes
Long-term positioning
- Data architecture: Building a future-proof, open data infrastructure
- Competitive advantage: Leveraging data transparency as a differentiator
- Culture of innovation: Establishing a corporate culture that views data access as an opportunity
Materna as a partner in implementation
The EU Data Act is fundamentally changing the rules of the data economy. Materna supports companies in successfully navigating this transformation:
- Strategic consulting: Developing bespoke IoT and data strategies that combine legal requirements with business objectives
- Technical implementation: Setting up secure access architectures and standardised interfaces
- Legally compliant implementation: Support with data sharing whilst safeguarding trade secrets
- Business model innovation: Development of new data-driven services and partnerships
Conclusion: An opportunity in the obligation
The EU Data Act is more than a regulatory hurdle – it is the catalyst for an open, innovative European data economy. The first few weeks since its entry into force show that companies which view the requirements as a chore fall short of their potential. Those, on the other hand, who see the new rules as a strategic opportunity can secure decisive competitive advantages.
The data world of tomorrow belongs to those who act today. The question is no longer whether the Data Act is a curse or a blessing – but how companies can use it to their advantage.
