The Essential Guide to Understanding Why You Need a Fractional CFO

Not every business needs—or can afford—a full-time CFO. But every business needs strategic financial leadership. Enter the fractional CFO.

What is a Fractional CFO?

A fractional CFO is a part-time or contract chief financial officer who provides strategic financial guidance on a flexible basis. You get executive-level expertise without the full-time salary, benefits, and overhead.

Signs You Need a Fractional CFO

• Revenue between $1M-$20M and growing
• Cash flow feels unpredictable
• You're preparing for funding or exit
• Financial decisions feel reactive rather than strategic
• Your bookkeeper or accountant lacks strategic perspective

The Value Proposition

Cost Efficiency: Fractional CFO services typically cost 20-40% of a full-time CFO salary

Expertise Access: Gain insights from professionals who've worked across multiple industries and scenarios

Flexibility: Scale engagement up or down based on business needs

Objectivity: External perspective unclouded by internal politics

What a Fractional CFO Delivers

• Cash flow management and forecasting
• Financial strategy and planning
• KPI development and monitoring
• Board and investor relations
• M&A support
• Financial systems optimization

The question isn't whether you can afford a fractional CFO—it's whether you can afford not to have strategic financial leadership guiding your business.