What are the V-SME Standards?
Sustainability reporting can often feel overwhelming for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). From regulations and acronyms to data collection and disclosure, there’s a lot to manage. That’s why the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standards for SMEs (V-SME Standards) have been developed.
Recently recognised by the European Union, these standards were introduced by the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) to provide a simplified, voluntary framework for SME sustainability reporting. They are particularly valuable for businesses not currently in scope of mandatory regulations such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), but who still want to communicate their ESG performance clearly and effectively.
Unlike the more complex European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), the V-SME Standards are designed to be flexible and user-friendly. They feature two distinct reporting modules:
- The Basic Module: covering the essential ESG topics, ideal for SMEs just starting their sustainability journey.
- The Comprehensive Module: providing more advanced disclosures for businesses ready to report in greater depth.
This modular approach allows SMEs to choose a reporting level that matches their goals, resources, and stakeholder expectation
Why were the V-SME Standards introduced?
Sustainability expectations are no longer reserved for large corporations. Increasingly, SMEs are being asked to provide ESG information, especially in relation to supply chain transparency and access to finance. The V-SME Standards were developed to help smaller businesses meet these growing demands in a manageable and structured way.
Adopting the standards also supports better risk management. By identifying and disclosing key sustainability risks, SMEs can strengthen decision-making, build resilience, and position themselves more favourably with banks, investors, and customers who prioritise transparency and sustainable business practices.
How do I get started with V-SME Standards reporting?
Thanks to our partner platform, Eevery, getting started with V-SME reporting is easier than ever. The platform is designed to make SME ESG reporting intuitive and efficient, regardless of prior experience. After setup, you can choose between the Basic or Comprehensive module. You’ll then input information across key areas, including:
- General business information
- Environmental metrics
- Social impact metrics
- Governance metrics
You also have the option to include additional sustainability information not specifically covered by the standards. The platform then automatically generates a standards-aligned PDF report, eliminating the need to compile multiple reporting requirements manually.
How Positive Planet can support you with V-SME Standards
At Positive Planet, we’re here to make the reporting process smooth and effective. Our team will introduce you to the Eevery platform, guiding you step by step through setup and use. Our expert ESG consultants will be on hand to provide tailored advice and answer any questions you may have.
From materiality assessment through to final report delivery, the Eevery platform, combined with Positive Planet’s professional support, covers every stage in one place. Whether you’re just starting with ESG or looking to enhance your current sustainability practices, we’re here to help you succeed.
Book a free demonstration with our Principal ESG Consultant, Emma Gray, to learn more about the V-SME Standards and the Eevery Platform.