Which problems does the VSME solve for SMEs?

Which problems does the VSME solve for SMEs?

Short answer: The VSME bundles ESG requests, reduces duplicate work, and strengthens SMEs when dealing with larger business partners[76].

Without standardization, SMEs often have to fill out different questionnaires and formats—each new project or loan application triggers another data request. The EFRAG study shows that many SMEs already receive multiple requests per year and the number is expected to rise sharply[77]. The VSME acts like an “only-once” principle: one report covers all relevant ESG information and can be shared with various stakeholders[76]. With the value-chain cap, larger partners cannot ask for additional data beyond the VSME if both modules are applied[22]. This helps SMEs avoid uncoordinated requests, save time, and cut internal costs.

Sources: [22] VSME FAQ: Voluntary sustainability reporting for SMEs I Tanso Blog; [76] Stop Drowning in ESG Requests: One VSME Report Can Do It All | Karomia Blog; [77] EFRAG's%20Cover%20Letter%20and%20Cost%20Benefit%20Analysis%20on%20VSME.pdf