- The VSME template is a free Excel model, based on the EFRAG standard, that structures SME ESG reporting around 56 core indicators.
- It combines an Excel file (environment, social and governance tabs) with a user guide explaining each indicator and its data sources.
- No external audit is mandatory: internal validation by management or a CSR committee is sufficient.
- The Basic module (56 indicators) can be complemented by the Comprehensive module (9 additional indicators) to move closer to CSRD logic.
What is the VSME template and who is it for?
The VSME template is an ESG reporting model based on the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs, designed by EFRAG for non-listed SMEs. It allows companies to produce a clear, credible ESG report without the administrative burden of CSRD.
The VSME standard is built around 56 core indicators covering the three ESG pillars: environment, social and governance. Its objective: a structured, proportionate approach scaled to SME capabilities.
This model is particularly suited to SME suppliers of large CSRD-subject groups, growing startups looking to strengthen their ESG credibility, and companies seeking access to responsible financing.
Why use a VSME template for ESG reporting?
VSME offers several concrete benefits:
- Stronger credibility: data structured according to an official European framework.
- Time savings: the Excel model simplifies data collection and analysis.
- Standardised response: answers client ESG questionnaires in a single format.
- Internal management: helps formalise targets and track ESG progress.
Contents of the VSME pack (Excel + user guide)
The VSME pack is structured around two elements:
- The Excel file: environment, social and governance tabs; 56 Basic module indicators; standardised input fields; automatic calculation areas and summary sheets; tables ready for internal and external communication.
- The user guide: indicator explanations; data collection recommendations; format examples and source types (HR, invoices, consumption data, policies).
No presentation structure is imposed: your final report can take the form of a Word document, PDF or internal web page, depending on your constraints.
How to implement the VSME template step by step
1. Prepare data collection
Identify existing internal sources: HR, operations management, accounting, energy invoices, internal policies. Appoint an ESG lead or a small project team.
2. Adapt the model
Customise the tabs to suit your sector and company size. If certain data is unavailable, flag it for the next iteration — VSME allows for progressive application.
3. Enter the information
Complete the Excel workbook with existing data, indicator by indicator. The guide specifies recommended units, periods and calculation methods.
4. Consolidate and validate
Verify data consistency through cross-checking. In the absence of mandatory external audit, opt for formalised internal validation (by management or a CSR committee).
5. Generate the ESG report
Use the model's summary sheets to produce your final document. You can then share it with clients, investors or stakeholders. Specialist platforms like Ditto can automate part of this step: pre-filled collection, chart generation and methodological support.
Download the VSME Digital Template from EFRAG
The official EFRAG Excel template for structuring your 56 VSME indicators — free, updated and ready to use.
The 100 ESG indicators you need to know
Get the full list of ESG indicators used by the main frameworks to structure your reporting
Key indicators in the template
The VSME Basic module includes around 56 datapoints grouped across 11 thematic indicators, including: GHG emissions and energy consumption; waste and water management; working conditions, health and safety; equality and inclusion; governance, ethics and data protection.
The Comprehensive module, optional, adds nine more advanced indicators for companies looking to partially align their reporting with CSRD logic.
Understand double materiality and IROs
Dive deeper into double materiality to strengthen the relevance of your VSME indicators
How to use the completed report
Once finalised, the VSME template report can be used in several ways:
- External communication: standardised response to ESG requests from large clients or investors.
- Internal management: regular tracking of action plans and CSR KPIs.
- System integration: some companies integrate the Excel model into their ERP or ESG platforms (like Ditto) to automate updates and consolidation.
- CSRD preparation: the VSME report forms a structured first base for future ESRS compliance.
Structure your VSME reporting with Ditto
Our experts help you collect your indicators, structure your report and meet the expectations of your buyers and supply chain partners.
VSME Template — Key Takeaways
| Key element | Description | Value for the SME |
|---|---|---|
| Nature of VSME | European voluntary standard for SME ESG reporting | Structure extra-financial data with no regulatory constraint |
| Recommended format | Excel model + user guide | Easy to deploy and customise |
| Number of indicators | Around 56 in the Basic module | Scaled to SME size and resources |
| Audit / verification | Not mandatory | Internal validation is sufficient |
| Double materiality | Recommended but not required | Strengthens strategic coherence |
| Added value | Improves credibility, responds to client requests, facilitates access to finance | Concrete management and ESG communication tool |
