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Regulatory framework

VS (ex VSME) reporting to structure ESG pragmatically

We support SMEs in structuring their data and ESG reporting under the VS (ex VSME) standard, in line with the reality of their business and how they create value.

Start your VS (ex VSME) journey

Structure your ESG strategy without the complexity of full CSRD compliance

Your clients, banks and partners already ask for ESG data. The question is no longer whether to structure it, but how to do so efficiently and credibly.

VS (ex VSME) gives SMEs a clear, proportionate European framework to organise their ESG data, respond to stakeholder requests and strengthen their market positioning, without the complexity of full CSRD reporting.

It turns scattered information into structured data that supports your tenders, financing conversations and long-term strategy.

ESGlogic team supporting SMEs with VS (ex VSME) reporting

What is VS (ex VSME)?

The VS (ex VSME) standard (Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for non-listed SMEs) was developed by EFRAG at the request of the European Commission. It answers the growing need for ESG transparency from SMEs not subject to CSRD, by offering a structured and accessible reporting framework.

Its principles:

  • Voluntary framework
  • More accessible than CSRD
  • Simplification and cost reduction
  • Open to all companies not subject to CSRD

VS (ex VSME) reporting lets small and medium-sized enterprises structure and communicate their ESG initiatives.

Is your company concerned?

You are concerned if:

You are not subject to CSRD reporting

You are a company with fewer than 1,000 employees

You want to anticipate regulatory changes without putting in place a full CSRD framework

You need a structured ESG report to support your tenders, financing requests or investor conversations

VS (ex VSME) was designed precisely for SMEs that need to meet growing ESG expectations in a proportionate, pragmatic and business-oriented way.

VSME Medals to structure your ESG journey

Whether your ESG journey is just starting or already well structured, VSME Medals provide a clear and credible way to recognise your level of commitment. Developed by SMT and supported by the SMT Collective, the Medals are based on the VS (ex VSME) standard created by EFRAG at the request of the European Commission.

The four levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum) reflect the maturity of your ESG practices, from the first data collection to full strategic integration.

VS (ex VSME) Bronze medalBronze
VS (ex VSME) Silver medalSilver
VS (ex VSME) Gold medalGold
VS (ex VSME) Platinum medalPlatinum

By earning a VSME Medal, your company can position itself within a European ESG framework, demonstrate its transparency and credibility to stakeholders, and effectively prepare for future regulatory requirements. As an official VSME Medals partner, ESGlogic supports companies throughout the process, from data collection to audit preparation.

Our structured approach

Phase 1: Simplify your ESG data collection

  • ESG data collection becomes structured and fluid
  • Centralisation of key environmental, social and governance indicators
  • Clear, consistent data from the start

Objective: ESG data collection becomes fluid. Our digital tool centralises the key environmental, social and governance indicators, ensuring clarity and consistency from the start.

Phase 2: Build your VS (ex VSME)-compliant foundation

  • Delivery of a VS (ex VSME)-aligned report (basic or full)
  • Foundation for your ESG strategy
  • Link between data and concrete actions
  • Integration of CO2 measurement, transition planning and continuous improvement

Objective: turn your ESG data into a VS (ex VSME)-aligned foundation that guides concrete action and continuous improvement.

Phase 3: Integrate ESG into your overall strategy

  • Go beyond reporting
  • Aim for a VSME Medal
  • Strengthen transparency and performance
  • Turn ESG data into strategic value

Objective: turn ESG data into strategic value that strengthens transparency, boosts performance and supports sustainable growth.

The benefits

Strengthen your competitive positioning by meeting the ESG expectations of your clients and partners

Improve your access to financing through better eligibility for grants and green funding

Anticipate regulation by aligning early with key ESG indicators and reducing compliance risks

Build resilience by anticipating market shifts, transition risks and stakeholder expectations

ESGlogic workshop with an SME team
The ESGlogic team

Why choose ESGlogic?

  1. 1Strong European regulatory expertise (CBAM, CSRD, VS (ex VSME), etc.)
  2. 2Close relationship with the VSME Medals
  3. 3One-stop shop combining regulatory expertise, practical tools and sector insight
  4. 4Experience with SMEs as well as large groups
  5. 5Structured methodology to roll out the VS (ex VSME) framework step by step
  6. 6We go beyond compliance and turn ESG into a strategic lever

Our role is to turn regulatory complexity into a structured strategic advantage.

Frequently asked questions

The CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) is a mandatory European regulation requiring large companies and listed entities to publish detailed sustainability reports in line with the ESRS standards developed by EFRAG.

VS (ex VSME), by contrast, is a voluntary standard designed for SMEs not subject to CSRD. Developed by EFRAG, it provides a simplified and proportionate framework to structure and communicate a company's ESG journey.

Voluntary yet structured, the VS (ex VSME) framework lets companies not subject to CSRD have each step of their ESG commitment recognised. Through a medal system, it offers clear, progressive recognition aligned with stakeholder expectations.

Competitive advantage: stand out through credible ESG action, a stronger reputation and increased employer appeal.

Simpler partner relationships: respond efficiently to CSRD-related requests with a clear, recognised framework.

Strategic foresight: show your ability to anticipate market shifts and lead the sustainable transition.

Access to financing: ease access to green financing and strengthen investor confidence.

No. Double materiality assessment is not required by VS (ex VSME). It has been replaced by the “if applicable” principle, a conditional requirement built into each disclosure obligation.
Laurane Castermans, ESG Consultant, Head of CSRD/VS (ex VSME)

Laurane Castermans

ESG Consultant, Head of CSRD/VS (ex VSME)

Let's make your company VS (ex VSME)-compliant!

Laurane guides you through every step of your VS (ex VSME) journey.