VSME – Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Made Simple for SMEs

What is the VSME?

VSME offers a practical, cost-effective, and scalable way for SMEs to manage and communicate their sustainability performance, without the heavy compliance load of CSRD. It supports business growth and operational efficiency while keeping reporting requirements proportionate to company size and capacity.

The Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs (VSME) is a new framework developed by EFRAG for non-listed micro, small, and medium-sized businesses. Unlike the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the VSME is:

• Voluntary
• Flexible
• Tailored to SME needs

It helps your business meet growing demands for sustainability data without the heavy compliance burden.

Why Does VSME Matter?

Today’s business landscape is changing fast. Whether it’s customers, corporate buyers, or banks, stakeholders want to see your environmental and social impact.
VSME makes it easier to respond.

It provides a standardized, practical way to communicate your sustainability performance, helping you unlock business opportunities and stay ahead of future regulations.

Top Benefits of Using VSME

• Lightweight & Easy to Start
  • No audits. No double materiality. No digital reporting headaches.
• Save Time and Resources
  • Designed to be practical for SMEs: choose what’s relevant and scale as needed.
• Win More Business
  • Stand out in ESG-aware tenders, respond to supply chain requests, and improve your credibility.
• Future-Proof Your Reporting
  • Compatible with EU standards like the CSRD, so you can prepare for what’s coming without over-investing today.

What’s in the Guide?

• What the VSME is (as isn’t)
• How it compares to CSRD
• Key use cases for SMEs
• Benefits by stakeholders (banks, clients, investors)
• How to get started