Fractional CFOs for Pre-revenue Startups
Need financial help before your startup is making money? A fractional CFO gives early-stage companies access to expert financial strategy, without the full-time salary. From building investor-ready models to managing burn and setting up systems, they help you stay lean, raise capital, and build a stronger foundation for growth.
Need to outsource something else? Search for proactivefinancial advisorsandaccountantson Sam’s List too. Make sure to check the reviews, it’s one of the most important parts of your vetting process!
Need to outsource something else? Search for proactivefinancial advisorsandaccountantson Sam’s List too. Make sure to check the reviews, it’s one of the most important parts of your vetting process!
Fractional CFOs
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What Does a Fractional CFO Do for a Pre‑Revenue Startup?
A fractional CFO helps pre-revenue startups make smart decisions before money ever hits the bank account. Here’s what they do:
Fundraising Support: Build 3-statement models (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow), prep pitch decks, and get investor-ready.
Runway & Burn Rate Forecasting: Track how fast you’re spending and how long you’ll last—then extend your runway.
Budgeting & Cost Control: Create lean budgets that reflect your startup’s current phase and future goals.
Scenario Planning: Model what happens if your raise falls short or your growth takes longer than expected.
Financial Systems Setup: Choose accounting tools, structure your chart of accounts, and avoid cleanup later.
Investor Confidence: Having a CFO—even part-time—signals credibility to investors and board members.
Startups don’t need to wait for revenue to need financial clarity. A fractional CFO helps founders focus on building while preparing for what’s ahead.
Fundraising Support: Build 3-statement models (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow), prep pitch decks, and get investor-ready.
Runway & Burn Rate Forecasting: Track how fast you’re spending and how long you’ll last—then extend your runway.
Budgeting & Cost Control: Create lean budgets that reflect your startup’s current phase and future goals.
Scenario Planning: Model what happens if your raise falls short or your growth takes longer than expected.
Financial Systems Setup: Choose accounting tools, structure your chart of accounts, and avoid cleanup later.
Investor Confidence: Having a CFO—even part-time—signals credibility to investors and board members.
Startups don’t need to wait for revenue to need financial clarity. A fractional CFO helps founders focus on building while preparing for what’s ahead.
FrequentlyAsked Questions
When should I hire a fractional CFO for my startup?
You should hire a fractional CFO 3–6 months before your first raise. They’ll help you prep your pitch deck, build financial models, and understand how much capital you really need.
How much does a fractional CFO cost for a startup?
Most startups pay between $3,000 and $10,000 per month. Some offer hourly or project-based pricing for pre-revenue startups—typically $175 to $350 per hour.
What services can a fractional CFO provide for a pre-revenue company?
They help with fundraising, financial modeling, budgeting, scenario planning, cash flow forecasting, pricing strategy, investor reporting, and system setup.
Do I need a full-time CFO before I generate revenue?
No. A fractional CFO offers flexible, part-time support that covers most early-stage needs until you hit ~$1M+ in revenue or scale complexity.
What’s the difference between a CPA and a CFO for startups?
A CPA focuses on tax and compliance. A CFO focuses on strategy, forecasting, fundraising, and growth planning. You may need both—but not for the same role.
Not sure who’s right for you as a pre-revenue startup? Answer a few quick questions, and we’ll introduce you to someone who fits.
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