The VS Standard: Everything SMEs need to know about the new ESG reporting standard

The VS Standard is Europe's tailor-made solution for SMEs: professional ESG reporting on sustainability without the burden of excessive bureaucracy.

What is the VS Standard?

Developed by EFRAG, it establishes a standardised framework for sustainability disclosure. Whilst application is voluntary, in practice it delivers a significant competitive advantage.

The Core Principle: Proportionality

The standard was designed from the ground up specifically for SMEs – rather than merely being a simplified version of the ESRS for large corporations.

• Only relevant and actionable data points
• Pragmatic instead of complex requirements
• Every piece of data serves a clear business purpose

Who benefits from the standard?

SMEs in supply chains

Corporate clients subject to CSRD regulations increasingly demand ESG data. A VS report delivers precisely what is required.

SMEs seeking financing

Banks utilise ESG data for risk assessment. Standardised ESG reporting improves lending terms and credit conditions.

Forward-looking SMEs

Sustainability as an opportunity: understand carbon footprints, mitigate risks, and stand out as an employer of choice.

The modular structure

• Basic module: The entry point covering fundamental ESG disclosure – sufficient for many SMEs.
• Comprehensive module: Additional data points tailored for banks or large corporate clients.

Conclusion

The VS Standard transforms complex market requirements into clear, manageable roadmaps for mid-sized enterprises.