How much does AI consulting for SMEs cost?

The free initial call serves as an assessment. A typical AI pilot project for an SME ranges between 15,000 and 60,000 euros, depending on complexity and data readiness. German funding programmes such as go-digital can cover up to 50 percent of the cost.

How long does AI adoption take in an SME?

A first productive use case can be delivered in 8 to 12 weeks. A full AI strategy spanning multiple areas typically takes 6 to 12 months.

Do I need my own IT department for AI?

No. We deliberately work with SMEs that have no in-house IT. Modern AI solutions can be deployed cloud-based without heavy infrastructure, often as SaaS or via low-code platforms.

What sets FERNAU apart from classic AI consultancies?

We are a manufacturing SME ourselves. We have operated a CNC machining business for 20 years and understand the reality on the shop floor, in sales and in accounting, not just PowerPoint theory.

Which AI applications are most valuable for SMEs?

High-impact areas include quote automation, predictive maintenance, AI-driven quality control, document processing and AI agents in customer service and accounting.

Can AI be implemented in SMEs in line with GDPR and the EU AI Act?

Yes, if the right architecture decisions are made from day one. We rely on European cloud providers, on-premise solutions or anonymised data pipelines depending on the use case and risk class.

AI consulting SME

AI consulting for theGerman Mittelstand

We help manufacturing and mid-sized companies turn AI from strategy into productive solutions. Hands-on, EU AI Act compliant and with measurable ROI.

Free initial consultation More about our consulting

What you can expect from our AI consulting

Six concrete building blocks, from first idea to scaled AI solution in the Mittelstand.

AI strategy for SMEs

We build an AI roadmap that fits your business model, budget and people. Not theory, but actionable steps.

Use case identification

Together we identify the highest-leverage AI use cases in your company, from quote generation to predictive maintenance.

Pilot project & delivery

From proof of concept to production in 8 to 12 weeks, with measurable business value and clear KPIs.

EU AI Act compliant

Every AI solution is designed from day one to comply with the EU AI Act and GDPR. Compliance is the foundation, not an add-on.

Scaling & ROI

We scale successful pilots across the business and make sure every euro invested returns measurable value.

Empowering your teams

We leave behind working AI solutions and enabled teams who can develop them further on their own.

Frequently asked questions

Ready for AI in your SME?

In a free 30-minute initial call we clarify whether and where AI makes sense for your company.

Free initial consultation 06150 184973-0

Subject matter expert

Lars Zimmermann, Managing Director & AI Manager

AI Manager (IHK), Certified Business Administrator (IHK) and Master Metal Construction (HWK). 20 years of industrial experience in the German manufacturing Mittelstand. The content of this page is based on hands-on consulting practice with SMEs in Germany and is regularly updated to reflect current regulation and technology.

AI Manager (IHK)Updated on April 20, 2026