Startups can benefit fromfractional CFO servicesto improve financial forecasting, manage burn rate, prepare for fundraising rounds, and build scalable financial systems. A part-time CFO provides executive-level expertise without the cost of a full-time hire.
Find experienced fractional CFOs for startups on Sam’s List.
Common Financial Mistakes Startups Make
Without strategic financial leadership, startups often:
Miscalculate cash runway
Fail to prepare for funding rounds
Underestimate operational costs
Overhire too quickly
A fractional CFOhelps anticipate these pitfalls and proactively design solutions.
How a Fractional CFO Supports Startups
Fundraising Preparation:Builds financial models investors trust
Cash Flow Management:Monitors burn rate and cash runway precisely
Strategic Financial Planning:Aligns financial strategy with growth milestones
Investor Reporting:Prepares polished reports that build investor confidence
When to Hire a Fractional CFO
Startups typically need a fractional CFO:
After raising a seed or Series A round
When monthly burn exceeds $50k
When preparing for rapid scaling or additional funding rounds
How Sam’s List Helps
Sam’s Listfeatures seasoned fractional CFOs experienced in startup environments. You can browse fractional CFOs by startup expertise, fundraising experience, and client success stories.
FAQs
What does a fractional CFO do for a startup?
They manage cash flow, prepare fundraising materials, build financial models, and advise on financial strategy and operations.
When should a startup hire a fractional CFO?
Typically once the company has external investors, needs sophisticated forecasting, or plans to aggressively scale.
How much do fractional CFO services cost for startups?
Fees typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 per month depending on engagement scope.
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Author: Kimi, Co-founder of Sam's List
Kimi writes about what she's learning while building Sam's List and shares honest takeaways from her conversations with accountants and financial advisors across the country. None of this is financial advice—just the stuff most people wish someone told them sooner.
