Kube makes sustainability reporting accessible for SMEs

Belgian SMEs, organizations, and companies that are not yet legally required to report on sustainability now have access to a practical solution to map out their sustainability efforts. With Kube, the new platform from Isabel, entrepreneurs can easily collect their ESG data and share it in a structured report with customers, banks, and other partners. This solution was developed at the initiative of Febelfin and is supported by several other sector federations, all sharing the same goal: to offer entrepreneurs a single platform to manage their sustainability profile following the “only once” principle.

Why SMEs and organizations are increasingly expected to provide sustainability reports?

Sustainability is no longer optional. It has become an important part of how companies operate. European regulations such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) have required large and listed companies to report annually on their sustainability efforts since 2024. SMEs are not legally bound by this obligation, but in practice customers, banks, investors, and public authorities are increasingly requesting structured ESG information (Environmental, Social, Governance).

Thanks to the VSME Standard (Voluntary Standard for non-listed micro, small and medium enterprises), companies and organizations now have a European framework that allows them to report in a proportionate way, without the heavy requirements of the CSRD. This enables them to make their efforts visible, strengthen their competitive position, and build trust with partners.

Kube responds to a clear market need

With Kube, Isabel is responding directly to this growing need. The platform was developed by Isabel at the initiative of Febelfin, in close collaboration with the four major banks: Belfius, BNP Paribas Fortis, ING and KBC. Throughout the development process, broad support was sought, with input from public authorities, businesses and federations such as Voka, AKT and VBO/FEB.

Isabel partnered with the Ghent-based start-up Karomia, which brings ESG expertise and advanced AI technology to the platform. This collaboration strengthens Kube’s further development and ensures a unique and user-friendly experience.

Thanks to the “only once” principle, companies only need to provide their data one time. The report can then be shared with banks, customers, investors and other partners, and reused for multiple purposes. Most public investment companies, including SFPIM, Wallonie Entreprendre and PMV, will also make use of Kube.

Eléonore Simonet, Minister for the Middle Class, Self-employed and SMEs: “My policy, summed up in the slogan ‘more opportunities, fewer obstacles’, focuses strongly on reducing administrative burdens and creating opportunities for SMEs. Although the CSRD requirements do not apply directly to SMEs, they do feel the indirect impact through the demands of larger clients and banks. Kube offers an innovative and accessible tool that simplifies sustainability reporting, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on running their business instead of dealing with extra paperwork.”

Kris De Ryck, CEO of Isabel: “The major advantage for companies is that they only need to provide their ESG profile once, after which they can decide themselves which banks or partners may access their report. This avoids an overload of separate requests and gives companies a practical platform that also strengthens their position in the market.”

Karel Baert, CEO of Febelfin: “With Kube, the financial sector supports Belgian companies in mapping and communicating their sustainability efforts in an accessible way. This is an important first step for companies in their sustainable transition. By bringing more transparency, Kube helps strengthen the trust between companies and their business partners.”

Luc Machiels, CEO of Karomia: “Our collaboration with Isabel and Febelfin shows how technology can bridge the gap between regulation and practical action for SMEs. With Kube, we wanted not only to remove the complexity of sustainability reporting, but also to give companies an intuitive, future-oriented platform that helps them grow in transparency and trust.”

Frank Beckx, CEO of Voka: “Sustainability reporting should not place unreasonable pressure on companies. It should also not create additional administrative burdens for SMEs. One clear and simple system ensures administrative ease. We are pleased to have contributed to this initiative for the benefit of our businesses.”

Frédéric Panier, CEO of AKT: “AKT for Wallonia welcomes the launch of this platform, which simplifies and centralizes the management of ESG data. It is a positive signal for Walloon companies seeking concrete and secure tools to ease their administrative processes. We have closely followed the initial development steps and will continue to monitor the rollout to ensure the platform aligns optimally with the economic reality of our region.”

Pieter Timmermans, CEO of VBO/FEB: “VBO/FEB welcomes the launch of this new platform, which helps reduce administrative burdens for SMEs and supports them in responding better to the growing demand for ESG information. What’s important is that it works according to the ‘only-once’ principle, which truly simplifies things for companies. We appreciate the initiative from the banking sector, showing that collaboration is possible in the interest of the Belgian economy. VBO/FEB remains closely involved to ensure this development moves in the right direction.”

Kube, an accessible and highly secure solution

The basic version of Kube is free. To remove any possible barriers, an exceptional launch offer is available for SMEs until the end of 2026, which includes full AI support. This allows companies to fully explore the platform and easily create their first sustainability report.

Companies always retain full control over their data: they decide who can access their sustainability data. By sharing structured ESG data, businesses can transparently demonstrate that they are future-oriented and resilient.

Today, many SMEs still lack maturity in ESG. However, the risks and opportunities brought by the transition are no less significant for them. With Kube, companies can take an essential first step and strategically prepare for the sustainable transition.