Voluntary reporting standard for SMEs (VSME)

What is the VSME standard?

The VSME Standard (Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for non-listed SMEs) was developed by EFRAG at the request of the European Commission.
It addresses the growing need for ESG transparency among small and medium-sized enterprises not subject to the CSRD, by providing a structured and accessible reporting framework.

Types of modules

The VSME standard was designed by EFRAG at the request of the European Commission to give SMEs a simple and voluntary way to structure their sustainability reporting.

It comes in response to the Omnibus Directive, which postponed and simplified the CSRD obligations for smaller companies while reinforcing the importance of voluntary approaches.

To reflect the diversity of ESG maturity among SMEs, the VSME framework is built around two progressive modules, allowing each company to advance step by step in structuring its ESG strategy and disclosures.

Basic module

A first step to structure your ESG data.
This module focuses on key environmental, social and governance indicators, helping you build a solid foundation for future reporting.
It’s ideal for SMEs beginning their ESG journey or responding to first client or investor requests.

Comprehensive module

A deeper step towards strategic reporting.
This module integrates policies, targets and transition plans, providing a complete picture of your company’s ESG performance and commitments. It aligns with the expectations of banks, investors and corporate clients, and prepares you for future CSRD alignment.

Why choose ESGlogic

Because we help you go beyond compliance.
ESGlogic is a recognised partner in sustainability, supporting companies of all sizes through every stage of their ESG journey, from first measurement to strategic reporting.

As a one stop shop for ESG, we combine expertise, practical tools and sector specific insight to build solutions that fit your reality.
We closely follow the evolution of European regulations and market expectations to keep your strategy aligned, relevant and future proof.

With the VSME standard now officially recognised by the European Commission as the European framework for non listed SMEs, we have developed a complete set of tools and materials to help you adopt it step by step, with a structured and measurable approach to sustainability.

Our approach

Simplify your ESG data collection

With ESGlogic, collecting ESG data becomes effortless. Our digital tool centralizes key environmental, social, and governance indicators, ensuring clarity and consistency from the start.
Build your VSME-compliant foundation

We provide a VSME-aligned report that serves as the cornerstone of your ESG strategy, linking your data to concrete actions such as CO₂ measurement, transition planning, and continuous improvement.
Integrate ESG into your broader strategy

Our approach goes beyond reporting. We help you turn data into strategic insight. A powerful driver for transparency, performance, and sustainable growth.

Whether your ESG journey is just beginning or already well structured, the VSME Medals offer a clear and credible way to recognize your level of commitment.

Developed by the SMT Collective, the Medals are based on the VSME Standard (the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for non-listed SMEs) created by EFRAG at the request of the European Commission.

While EFRAG designed the reporting framework, it is the SMT Collective that transformed it into a practical recognition system to assess and showcase ESG maturity.

By obtaining a VSME Medal, your company can position itself within a European ESG framework, demonstrate transparency and credibility to stakeholders and prepare effectively for future regulatory requirements.

As an official partner of the VSME Medals, ESGlogic supports companies throughout the process from data collection to audit preparation to help them obtain their medal.

Discover the full initiative on the official website.

The four levels, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, reflect how advanced your ESG practices are, from first data collection to full strategic integration.

VSME Medals: Recognize your ESG journey, step by step.

Frequently Asked Question

The CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) is a mandatory European regulation requiring large and listed companies to publish detailed sustainability reports in line with the ESRS standards developed by EFRAG.
The VSME, on the other hand, is a voluntary standard designed for SMEs not subject to the CSRD. Developed by EFRAG, it provides a simplified and proportional framework to structure and communicate a company’s ESG approach.
Voluntary but structured, the VSME reference system enables companies not subject to CSRD to recognize each stage of their ESG commitment. Thanks to a system of medals, it offers clear, progressive recognition in line with stakeholder expectations.
Competitive advantage
Stand out through credible ESG action, stronger reputation, and employer appeal.
Simplified partner relations
Respond efficiently to CSRD-related requests with a clear, recognized framework.
Strategic foresight
Show your ability to anticipate market changes and lead the sustainability transition.
Access to finance
Facilitate access to green funding and strengthen investor confidence.
No, the double materiality assessment is not required under the VSME. It has been replaced by the “if applicable” principle, which is a conditional requirement embedded within each disclosure obligation.