Discover the ins and outs of voluntary sustainability reporting in an interactive masterclass, with special attention to business financing implications. 

Join us for an interactive half-day masterclass with experts in the field of due diligence and sustainability reporting and an interactive panel discussion on the implications for business financing.  

Even when not subject to upcoming European corporate sustainability and due diligence directives, many SMEs and midcaps are willing to engage in voluntary sustainability reporting due to 1) stakeholder interest, 2) customer demand and/or 3) in order to attract financing opportunities. At the same time, the reporting landscape for these companies is ambiguous and subject to frequent changes. Which voluntary reporting scheme should one follow? Can new (voluntary) EU reporting standards for SMEs (VSME) lead to a more predictable reporting landscape? And when reporting, which sustainability topics should one focus on (which topics are material)? How can voluntary reporting attract investments? 

In this interactive masterclass, you will gain insight into the voluntary sustainability reporting landscape for SMEs and midcaps, gain practical insights into how to determine material topics, and engage in peer learning with others that are faced with reporting questions. A special focus is placed on the implications for financing opportunities, as financing bodies are increasingly considering sustainability within their decision-making.  

Based on class outcomes, follow-up opportunities will be created tailored to participant needs. 

What you will learn: 

1. The ins and outs of voluntary sustainability reporting: Gain insights into benefits of adopting transparent sustainable reporting practices to meet stakeholder expectations and attract investment. 
2. A comprehensive introduction to the EU Voluntary Reporting Standards for SMEs: Gain an in-depth understanding of the upcoming EU standards for SMEs (VSME) and how they could lead to a more predictable and cohesive reporting landscape. 
3. Interactive session on material sustainability topics: Learn how to identify the most relevant sustainability topics for your business according to European guidelines. 
4. The implications for investment opportunities: Discover how voluntary sustainability reporting can create investment opportunities and strengthen your company’s appeal to potential investors, customers, and stakeholders. 

Format: 

An interactive session with practical insights, peer learning, and hands-on activities. Tailored follow-up opportunities will be provided based on class outcomes, ensuring that you can apply what you learn to your specific business needs. 

For whom  

This masterclass is directed towards SMEs and midcaps - as long as you are curious about how voluntary sustainability reporting can help your business in a fluctuating regulatory landscape, this masterclass is for you. Whether you're just starting to navigate sustainability reporting or you're looking to refine your approach in light of the upcoming EU directives, this session will provide you with the tools and insights to get started. Participants will benefit from a collaborative, interactive learning methodology. 

Speakers 

• Boris Verbrugge, dr.: Expertise in sustainable procurement and responsible business conduct. 
• Franc Bogovic, COO, finance&invest.brussels: Will share insights on the intersection between sustainability reporting and investment. 
• Wendy Braeken, Impact Expert, Impact Finance Belgium: How advanced sustainability management attracts investment. 
• Arjen Van de Walle, sustAIn.brussels, VUB BUDA: Expertise in sustainable innovation and digitalization. 

Price  

Thanks to the support of the European Commission and Innoviris in the framework of the EDIH sustAIn.brussels, SMEs and midcaps receive this training free of charge (0€). Large companies and participants without a company pay 1062 € per participant.  

Practical  

Location: Live meeting to allow for enough interaction, at FARI, BeCentral (Cantersteen 16, 1000 Bruxelles)  

Date: 27/02/2025  

Time: Welcome from 9:30-12:30, followed by a network lunch 

Contact: In case of questions concerning this event please contact Arjen Van de Walle, arjen.van.de.walle@vub.be  

Organisers  

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)   

SustAIn.brussels is a European Digital Innovation Hub in Brussels that serves as a single point of access to sustainable and digital innovation in Brussels with a focus on AI and other emerging technologies. Supported by the European Commission, Innoviris and hub.brussels.