VSME Certification Pathway: Level 2
Reporting with the VSME Standard
The definitive, in-depth course on reporting with the VSME Standard, covering every disclosure in detail, implementation processes, and how to practically prepare a complete, VSME-aligned sustainability report.
SMEs Need Structured Sustainability Reporting
The VSME Standard provides a simplified reporting framework for SMEs, and a bridge between CSRD reporting requirements.
Many professionals struggle to:
◆ Fully understand the VSME Standard and its disclosures
◆ Differentiate between the Basic and Comprehensive Modules
◆ Translate disclosures into real data collection processes
◆ Establish internal ESG governance and reporting structures
◆ Prepare a complete sustainability report
◆ Turn reporting into strategic business value
Without detailed guidance, sustainability reporting risks becoming fragmented, reactive, and inefficient.
Learning Outcomes
Move from introductory knowledge to full reporting capability.
After this course, you will be able to:
Master the VSME Framework
◆ Fully understand the structure and objectives of the VSME Standard
◆ Navigate both the Basic and Comprehensive Modules in depth
◆ Interpret and implement each disclosure requirement
Build Internal Reporting Capability
◆ Establish internal sustainability processes and governance
◆ Conduct gap analyses and prepare for reporting
◆ Build a structured ESG data pipeline
Deliver and Leverage Strategic Reporting
◆ Prepare a complete, digital-ready sustainability report
◆ Provide value chain data to larger business partners
◆ Use VSME reporting strategically to strengthen competitiveness
Course Structure
Format
6 comprehensive learning modules
80+ lessons, resources and practical examples
Practical case study data
Knowledge Checks
Study Notes and Slides
Certificate of Completion
8 CPD credits
Course Outline
Module 1: Introduction to Sustainability Reporting - Understand the global reporting landscape, EU Sustainable Finance Framework, stakeholder roles, and review a practical VSME sustainability report example.
Module 2: Unpacking the VSME Standard - Explore the purpose, scope, structure, objectives, disclosures, value chain considerations, and practical examples within VSME reports.
Module 3: The Basic Module: Deep Dive - In-depth guidance on each Basic Module disclosure, with implementation support and practical case data.
Module 4: The Comprehensive Module: Deep Dive - Detailed exploration of each Comprehensive Module disclosure, supported by applied case examples.
Module 5: Establishing Sustainability Processes - Learn how to form an ESG team, establish governance structures, conduct a gap analysis, develop sustainability strategies, assess business case implications.
Module 6: Preparing a Sustainability Report - Develop and manage an ESG data pipeline, apply project management techniques, ensure data quality and verification, and prepare digital-ready sustainability reports.
Bonus Masterclass: “Strategic Reporting: Making the VSME Standard Work for Your Business” With Amanda Koefoed Simonsen, a practical strategic perspective on aligning sustainability ambitions with VSME reporting.
Designed for Professionals Leading Sustainability Reporting
Sustainability and ESG Leaders
◆ Sustainability professionals
◆ ESG managers
Finance, Risk and Compliance Professionals
◆ Accounting and finance professionals
◆ Compliance officers
◆ Risk managers
Operational and Strategic Decision-Makers
◆ Business leaders and corporate executives
◆ Supply chain managers
Emerging Sustainability Professionals
◆ Graduates pursuing sustainability careers
Meet Your Expert Faculty
This course combines regulatory insight, consulting experience, and real-world SME implementation expertise.
Kristine Nagle
◆ Founder and Sustainability Advisor at Your Impact House
◆ Extensive SME and startup sustainability consulting experience across Europe
◆ Former CSR strategy lead at Printful (global unicorn, 1600+ FTE)
Mary Teehan
◆ Managing Director, MT Sustainability Consultancy
◆ Consultant to EFRAG in the development of the VSME Standard
Bonus Masterclass: Amanda Koefoed Simonsen
◆ Partner and Practice Lead, ESG and Sustainability at Copenhagen Changery
◆ Leading expert in ESG strategy and sustainability reporting alignment
A Strategic Opportunity for SMEs
The VSME Standard provides:
◆ A proportionate reporting framework for SMEs
◆ A practical alternative amid CSRD uncertainty
◆ A structured approach to ESG data requests
◆ A foundation for future regulatory alignment
Organisations that act early can:
◆ Strengthen stakeholder trust
◆ Improve internal governance
◆ Enhance competitiveness
◆ Future-proof sustainability reporting processes
Enrolment Options
Course Only
€395
12 months access to:
- Reporting with the VSME Standard course
- Making the VSME Standard Work for Your Business masterclass
- Certificate of Completion
- 8 CPD credits
- Downloadable resources and study materials
Professional Access
€795
12 months access to:
- All Sustainability Reporting Institute courses
- All Sustainability Reporting Institute masterclasses
- All Sustainability Reporting Institute certification pathways
- Expert-led sessions and interactive workshops
- In-depth learning tools, resources and advanced templates
- 60+ CPD credits
- Recognition and career-enhancing credentials
VSME Level 2 Course: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about our VSME Level 2 training, including course access, progression, and certification.
How long does the course take?
Approximately 8 hours of structured learning.
Is this relevant if CSRD requirements change?
Yes, the VSME Standard provides a structured framework that supports SMEs during regulatory uncertainty.
Is this course suitable for beginners?
Yes, it builds from fundamentals to full implementation depth.
Do I receive a certificate?
Yes, upon completion.
Does this cover both VSME modules?
Yes, including detailed deep dives into each disclosure.
Is the course practical or mainly theoretical?
The course is practice-focused. It combines clear explanation of the standards with real-world application guidance, helping you translate technical requirements into structured reporting processes within your organisation.
Go Beyond Understanding, Start Reporting with Confidence
Gain the skills, structure, and practical tools to implement the VSME Standard and produce a complete sustainability report.
Enrol Today