ESG reporting framework setup proposal: Free template

Customize this free ESG reporting framework setup proposal with Cobrief
Open this free ESG reporting framework setup proposal in Cobrief and start editing it instantly using AI. You can adjust the tone, structure, and content based on your offer, the client’s sustainability goals, and the reporting requirements. You can also use AI to review your draft — spot gaps, tighten language, and improve clarity before sending.
Once you're done, send, download, or save the proposal in one click — no formatting or setup required.
This template is fully customizable and built for real-world use — ideal for pitching ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) reporting services, responding to RFPs for sustainability consulting, or offering a structured framework to businesses aiming to enhance transparency in their ESG initiatives. Whether you’re creating proposals daily or occasionally, this version gives you a structured head start and removes the guesswork.
What is an ESG reporting framework setup proposal?
An ESG reporting framework setup proposal outlines the strategy and approach for establishing an ESG reporting framework within an organization. It includes the identification of key environmental, social, and governance factors relevant to the business, setting up metrics and KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), and recommending tools or methodologies for reporting and compliance.
This type of proposal is typically sent to organizations looking to enhance their sustainability efforts, comply with regulatory requirements, or align with global standards like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), or the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).
A well-structured ESG reporting proposal helps you:
- Define the business’s ESG reporting goals and requirements.
- Align ESG efforts with industry standards and regulations.
- Provide a clear implementation roadmap.
- Offer actionable insights into reporting, monitoring, and continual improvement.
If you’re looking to assist businesses in making their sustainability efforts transparent and measurable, this is the right kind of proposal to use.
Why use Cobrief to edit your proposal
Instead of copying a static template, you can use Cobrief to tailor and refine your proposal directly in your browser — with AI built in to help along the way.
- Edit the proposal directly in your browser: No setup or formatting required — just click and start customizing.
- Rewrite sections with AI: Highlight any sentence and choose from actions like shorten, expand, simplify, or change tone.
- Run a one-click AI review: Get instant suggestions to improve clarity, fix vague sections, or tighten your message.
- Apply AI suggestions instantly: Review and accept individual AI suggestions, or apply all improvements across the proposal in one click.
- Share or export instantly: Send your proposal through Cobrief or download a clean PDF or DOCX version when you’re done.
Cobrief helps you create a polished, persuasive proposal — without wasting time on formatting or second-guessing your copy.
When to use this proposal
This ESG reporting framework setup proposal works well in scenarios like:
- When a company wants to formalize its ESG reporting process: set clear guidelines and KPIs for transparency and reporting.
- When responding to an RFP for sustainability consulting: offer a professional approach to setting up ESG frameworks that align with industry standards.
- When working with a client to enhance sustainability initiatives: formalize the steps for measuring and reporting progress on ESG goals.
- When supporting a business through regulatory ESG requirements: ensure they meet compliance obligations with a clear framework for reporting.
Use this proposal whenever you need to set up a structured, effective ESG reporting process to support a company’s sustainability journey.
What to include in an ESG reporting framework setup proposal
Each section of the proposal is designed to help you explain your offer clearly and professionally. Here's how to use them:
- Executive summary: Start by summarizing your approach to developing an ESG reporting framework, focusing on the client’s specific sustainability goals. Highlight the importance of transparency and how your services will help achieve measurable impact.
- Scope of work: Detail the specific services you’ll provide, such as identifying relevant ESG metrics, defining reporting timelines, selecting tools or platforms for reporting, and ensuring compliance with global standards. Be clear about the reporting frequency (e.g., quarterly, annual) and which metrics will be tracked.
- Timeline: Break down the project into phases (e.g., research and planning, framework setup, implementation, and review) and outline expected delivery dates for each phase. Align the timeline with any upcoming reporting deadlines or compliance requirements.
- Pricing: Provide a detailed breakdown of your fees, including consultancy hours, tools or platforms to be used, and any additional costs for data collection or analysis. Transparency in pricing will help build trust.
- Terms and conditions: Outline payment terms, intellectual property (IP) ownership (e.g., who owns the final ESG report), and any revisions or amendments to the proposal once it's agreed upon.
- Next steps: Clearly state what the client needs to do to proceed, such as reviewing and confirming the proposal, signing an agreement, or scheduling a follow-up call.
How to write an effective ESG reporting framework setup proposal
An effective ESG reporting framework setup proposal isn’t just about offering a set of services — it’s about showing your client the strategic value of establishing a clear, measurable ESG reporting framework. Use these best practices to strengthen your pitch:
- Make the client the focus: Frame your offer around the client's sustainability goals and how an effective ESG framework will support their business objectives.
- Personalize where it matters: Use language that resonates with their industry, their specific environmental and social goals, and any regulatory pressures they may face.
- Show results, not just process: Highlight the impact your services will have on their ESG performance, whether it’s improved reporting accuracy, better alignment with global standards, or more effective communication of their sustainability initiatives.
- Be clear and confident: Avoid vague language like “we may” or “we hope” — provide actionable steps and clear outcomes.
- Keep it skimmable: Use bullet points, clear headings, and short paragraphs so the client can easily scan through the proposal.
- End with momentum: Always close with a direct call to action — e.g., “Approve the proposal to kick off your ESG framework setup.”
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I reuse this ESG reporting proposal for other clients?
Yes, but we recommend customizing each version to reflect the client’s industry, regulatory requirements, and specific sustainability goals.
Can I use this for both large and small businesses?
Absolutely — the framework is flexible and can be scaled to fit the size of the business and its sustainability needs.
Can I download and send the proposal as a PDF?
Yes — after editing in Cobrief, you can export a clean, professionally formatted PDF or DOCX file.
Can I remove or rename sections?
Yes — the entire proposal is editable. You can tweak, delete, or rewrite anything, with AI support built in.
Is this proposal a binding contract?
No — this is a proposal, not a legal agreement. If needed, you can link or attach a service contract separately.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.