The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
14 min
Level
In this article, we break down what the EU CBAM is, how it works, and what businesses need to do to comply.
ESG / CSR
Industries
MEASURE
ACT
COMFORM
The 10 Best VSME Tools in 2025 (And How to Choose One)
Level
More and more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are being asked to disclose environmental, social, and governance (ESG) data, whether by banks, investors, or major clients. In response, the EU has introduced the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs (VSME) – a simplified framework tailored to the needs of non-listed SMEs.
But even with this streamlined approach, many businesses still face a common challenge: how to actually implement VSME reporting without getting lost in spreadsheets, frameworks, or compliance checklists.
“ That’s where VSME tools come in – smart, often AI-powered platforms designed to simplify ESG data collection, automate sustainability reports, and ensure you're always one step ahead of stakeholder expectations. ”
In this article, we’ll:
- Introduce the 10 best VSME tools available in 2025
- Explore the benefits of using VSME software
- Help you choose the right platform for your business
- Answer the most common questions about the VSME
Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to upgrade your ESG reporting, this guide will help you find a solution that fits your size, sector, and sustainability goals.
What is a VSME tool?
A VSME tool is a software platform that helps small and medium-sized enterprises generate sustainability reports aligned with the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs. These tools simplify ESG data collection, automate reporting, and support compliance with the EU’s growing sustainability expectations.
The 10 Best VSME Tools in 2025
With more platforms offering AI-powered features, automation, and multi-framework compatibility, choosing the right VSME tool can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compared the most promising solutions on the market - from simple, entry-level platforms to full-scale ESG suites.
Below, we reveal our top 10 picks for 2025:
| 🥇 The Top 10 VSME Tools in 2025 | Highlight feature |
|---|---|
| 10. Leadity | Lightweight and intuitive for small SMEs |
| 9. Karomia | AI-generated sustainability narratives |
| 8. Position Green | Strong supplier data integration tools |
| 7. GoClimate | Emissions based on bookkeeping data |
| 6. Footprint Intelligence | GHG audit support with expert review |
| 5. Envoria | Dual ESRS and VSME support in one module |
| 4. Daato | Clean UI with AI-assisted ESG reporting |
| 3. Eevery | Smart, streamlined tool built solely for VSME reports |
| 2. Plan A | Flexible, modular ESG suite for EU SMEs |
| 1. Greenly | Real-time KPIs, multi-framework exports, AI audit tools |
Scroll on for pricing, features, and why each one made the list.
10. Leadity
Pricing: Starts at €199/month with a free trial available
Location: Germany
Key features:
- Full alignment with all 140 VSME data points, pre-structured and explained within the platform
- Step-by-step guidance through the entire reporting process, with templates and smart input assistance
- AI-supported report compilation and optional expert workshops
- Integrations for carbon accounting and data automation
Types of customers: Micro and small businesses looking for an intuitive, low-barrier entry point into ESG reporting, especially those with limited in-house sustainability expertise
9. Karomia
Pricing: Not publicly listed; demo and trial available
Location: Belgium
Key features:
- Fast report generation from uploaded documents — no manual formatting required
- AI-assisted automation to turn raw data into VSME-compliant reports in hours
- Designed to meet expectations of banks, buyers, and partners requesting ESG data
- Simple, intuitive workflow with a strong focus on ease-of-use for non-experts
Types of customers: SMEs not in scope for CSRD but under growing pressure to disclose ESG data to clients, banks, or procurement partners — especially those needing a low-effort, high-output solution
8. Position Green
Pricing: Custom pricing on request
Location: Norway (with operations across Scandinavia and the EU)
Key features:
- Full VSME reporting suite designed by ESG experts with built-in guidance and best practices
- Real-time analytics and dashboards for tracking sustainability performance
- Strong supplier data integration and scalable architecture for CSRD, SFDR, and future frameworks
- AI-powered reporting workflows aligned with auditing-grade financial principles
- Recognised by Verdantix and Gartner as a top ESG innovator
Types of customers: SMEs managing complex sustainability data across supply chains or preparing for evolving EU regulations — especially those seeking a future-ready platform with expert-driven support
7. GoClimate
Pricing: Starts at 350 SEK/month (around €30) for the Mini plan, with Pro plans from 2,500 SEK/month (approx. €215); custom pricing available for larger organisations
Location: Sweden
Key features:
- Fully automated carbon accounting that pulls data directly from your bookkeeping system
- Instant VSME-aligned exports with minimal manual input
- Clean, intuitive interface with fast setup and low learning curve
- Optimised for the 2025 Omnibus update and voluntary VSME standard
- Trusted by organisations including WWF, Fortnox, and Handelsbanken
Types of customers: Small businesses looking for a cost-effective, automated ESG and carbon reporting solution that delivers VSME compliance with minimal admin time
6. Footprint Intelligence
Pricing: Starts at approximately €390/month, with tailored plans based on company size and needs
Location: Germany
Key features:
- AI-powered platform built for VSME, CSRD, GRI, and double materiality compliance
- Seamless ESG data integration with visual dashboards and real-time collaboration
- Built-in double materiality assessment tools with survey workflows and risk mapping
- GHG footprint calculation covering Scope 1, 2, and 3 (CCF & PCF)
- Branded, stakeholder-ready ESG reports with automated formatting
- Co-developed with EU programmes and backed by Greenhouse Gas Protocol, SBTi, and CDP frameworks
Types of customers: SMEs aiming for audit-grade ESG disclosures and CSRD/VSME alignment, especially those needing full data traceability, advanced collaboration tools, and expert support baked into the platform
5. Envoria
Pricing: Custom pricing based on company size and modules used
Location: Germany
Key features:
- Full support for both ESRS and VSME reporting frameworks via a single, future-proof ESG Reporting Module
- Centralised platform to collect, manage, and structure ESG data
- Built-in audit trails, version control, and automated XBRL exports
- Real-time updates and compliance monitoring for evolving EU regulations
- Flexible modular setup also covering GRI, ISO 14001, EMAS, and more
Types of customers: SMEs needing a scalable ESG reporting solution that offers dual support for VSME and CSRD, along with advanced automation and audit-ready exports
4. Daato
Pricing: Custom pricing depending on company size and reporting scope
Location: Germany
Key features:
- End-to-end ESG reporting workflow designed for CSRD and VSME compliance
- Robust double materiality assessment tool with stakeholder survey features
- Centralised data collection with 100+ software integrations and audit logs
- Real-time dashboards, automated KPIs, and AI-supported report generation
- Built-in XBRL exports and audit-readiness tools (ISAE 3000 audited)
Types of customers: SMEs and mid-sized companies needing an intuitive, modular platform that supports both CSRD and VSME reporting, with audit-grade outputs and strong collaboration tools baked in
3. Eevery
Pricing: Custom pricing available on request – designed for small and mid-sized businesses with limited internal ESG resources
Location: Netherlands
Key features:
- Smart VSME reporting tool built specifically for the EU’s Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs
- Dynamic questionnaire with smart filtering – shows only questions relevant to your business
- Pre-fill functionality for faster updates in future reporting cycles
- Collaboration features allowing team members to contribute data via individual accounts
- Built-in guidance for each question plus hands-on support from Eevery’s team
- Multiple export options (PDF, CSV) in EU-compliant formats
Types of customers: Ideal for small and mid-sized EU businesses looking for an intuitive, low-effort tool to meet stakeholder expectations and future-proof their sustainability strategy. A great choice for SMEs with no in-house ESG team who still want to confidently produce a high-quality VSME report.
2. Plan A
Pricing: Tailored plans based on company size, modules, and region
Location: Germany
Key features:
- Modular ESG platform that supports both CSRD and VSME-aligned disclosures
- Integrated double materiality assessment tool with stakeholder engagement workflows
- Emissions tracking aligned with GHG Protocol across Scope 1, 2 and 3
- Pre-configured templates for ESRS, CDP, SBTi, and EU Taxonomy frameworks
- Data collection across entities with automated performance indicators and audit logs
Types of customers: SMEs and mid-sized companies across Europe that need a scalable, modular solution for ESG and CSRD/VSME reporting – especially those in high-impact sectors seeking alignment with science-based targets and EU taxonomy compliance.
1. Greenly
Pricing: Custom packages based on company size and reporting needs
Location: Headquartered in France, with clients and offices across Europe and the US
Key features:
- All-in-one VSME compliance and sustainability reporting platform
- Automated data collection via API integrations and supplier sync tools
- Smart materiality assessments, anomaly detection, and audit-ready controls
- Real-time sustainability KPI dashboards with AI-driven insights
- One-click export across 15+ sustainability frameworks (VSME, CSRD, SBTi, CDP...)
- Dedicated expert support with built-in guidance and regulatory updates
Types of customers: Greenly is trusted by over 3,500 businesses – from fast-growing SMEs to large enterprises – across multiple sectors and geographies. It’s ideal for companies seeking to stay ahead of evolving regulations, streamline ESG workflows, and produce investor-grade sustainability reports with minimal effort.
Close
What are the benefits of a VSME software?
Switching from spreadsheets to a dedicated VSME reporting platform isn’t just about ticking a compliance box, it’s about improving your entire sustainability workflow. Here’s what you gain:
Save time and reduce admin
Automation replaces manual copy-pasting and spreadsheet headaches
Streamline your workflow and spend less time chasing versions or formatting errors.
Simplify collaboration
Assign tasks and gather input across teams in one place
Make VSME reporting a team effort with shared access and clear roles.
Improve data quality
Catch errors early and ensure consistency across indicators
Platforms help flag missing or misaligned info before submission.
Boost internal confidence
Smart prompts and guidance make it easy to get it right
Even without ESG expertise, your team can produce high-quality reports.
Stakeholder-ready outputs
Build trust with clear, structured, compliant disclosures
Show investors, partners, and clients you’re serious about sustainability.
Be future-ready
Upgrade to CSRD reporting or other frameworks with ease
Start small with VSME and scale as your sustainability journey evolves.
How to choose the right VSME tool for your business
With more platforms offering VSME reporting features, it can be tricky to know which one is the best fit for your organisation. Here's what to consider when making your choice:
1. Start with your business size and internal capacity
- Do you have a dedicated sustainability or ESG manager?
- Will different team members need access to input data?
- Are you looking for a one-time report or an ongoing sustainability strategy?
If you're a small company with limited resources, opt for an intuitive platform with built-in guidance and support. Larger companies with more complex structures may prefer a modular platform that integrates across departments.
2. Check for VSME-specific features
Not all ESG platforms are built with the VSME framework in mind. Look for:
Smart filtering that hides irrelevant questions
Templates that comply with the EU’s VSME format
Export options in PDF, CSV, and/or XBRL
Clear guidance or tooltips for tricky sections
Some tools are adapted from CSRD workflows, but the best ones are purpose-built for SMEs – meaning faster results and fewer headaches.
3. Evaluate collaboration and support
Sustainability reporting isn’t a solo job. Choose a platform that makes it easy to:
- Invite colleagues to contribute
- Track inputs across teams
- Get human support when you're stuck
💡 Bonus: Some platforms offer built-in expert support or access to consultants who can walk you through each section.
4. Balance cost and compliance
While some tools offer free trials or freemium access, compliance with VSME requirements often demands more advanced features. Make sure you:
Understand the pricing model (per module, per user, flat fee?)
Avoid paying for features you don’t need (like full CSRD support)
Check whether the output meets your stakeholders’ expectations
5. Future-proof your choice
VSME is just one step. Look for a tool that can grow with you:
- Will it support CSRD if you're covered in future years?
- Can it track real-time sustainability KPIs?
- Does it integrate with your other software tools?
Final tips before you choose:
- ✅ Does the platform meet your specific reporting needs and company size?
- ✅ Are the export formats suitable for your clients, investors, or partners?
- ✅ Can team members collaborate and contribute easily?
- ✅ Will the tool support future compliance, like CSRD?
- ✅ Are you getting real value for your budget – not just more features?
VSEME Q&A
The Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs (VSME) is a simplified, non-binding framework developed by EFRAG to help non-listed SMEs report on ESG topics. It’s not mandatory, but it can make it easier to respond to client or investor requests.
It’s designed for small and medium-sized businesses that are not listed on stock markets but still need to share sustainability data. That includes companies with up to just under 1,000 employees.
The Basic Module includes 11 essential disclosures (e.g. energy use, workforce data). The Comprehensive Module adds 9 more, such as climate risk and human rights. You must complete the Basic before adding the Comprehensive.
Yes, it’s designed as a complementary tool to the CSRD. Even though it’s voluntary, it mirrors the structure and intent of EU sustainability reporting rules – making future compliance easier.
It can. Having a clear ESG report improves transparency and helps banks, clients, and investors assess your sustainability practices.
Yes – Greenly offers tools, training, and expert guidance to help companies adopt the VSME, gather ESG data, and prepare reports.
While the VSME was developed by EFRAG for the EU market, it can still offer value to non-EU companies:
- UK businesses: Even post-Brexit, many UK SMEs work with EU-based partners or clients. Using the VSME can help demonstrate ESG commitment in a format recognised across Europe, and prepare for future regulatory convergence.
- US companies: For US-based SMEs that trade with Europe or want to stay ahead of global ESG trends, the VSME provides a clear, lightweight structure for voluntary disclosure.
In both cases, it’s a helpful tool to structure ESG reporting – even if it’s not legally required.
Greenly’s support for VSME reporting
Greenly offers everything SMEs need to confidently adopt the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard (VSME) – from streamlined ESG data collection to expert-led guidance. Whether you're looking to build investor trust or future-proof your reporting, our platform is designed to make the process streamlined, strategic, and scalable.
| What we offer | How it helps |
|---|---|
|
1. Smarter ESG data collection
|
Identify the key ESG metrics that matter, track performance in real-time, and avoid common data pitfalls with our intuitive dashboards. |
|
2. Expert guidance and training
|
Build internal expertise with our training resources, workshops, and step-by-step support – helping your team understand sustainability reporting from the ground up. |
|
3. From data to action
|
We help you turn raw ESG data into a clear, actionable roadmap for improving performance and preparing for future compliance (like the CSRD). |
|
4. Streamlined reporting
|
Generate structured, investor-ready sustainability reports, backed by centralised data and a system designed to evolve with your needs. |
Find out more about our VSME offer on our dedicated page or get in touch with our team to get started.
Sources:
- Greenly, What is ESG reporting and should you be doing it
https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/company-guide/what-is-esg-reporting-and-should-you-be-doing-it - Greenly, What is ESG data and how to use it
https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/company-guide/what-is-esg-data-and-how-to-use-it - Greenly, Our guide to the VSME standard (EFRAG)
https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/company-guide/our-guide-to-the-vsme-standard-efrag - Greenly, What is the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)
https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/company-guide/what-is-the-corporate-sustainability-reporting-directive-csrd
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