If your startup is pulling in between $1M and $20M, you need financial leadership that scales with you—without the six-figure salary. These five firms deliver the strategic muscle of a CFO, on your terms.
The Rise of the On-Demand CFO
The fractional CFO model has exploded in recent years, and for good reason. Startups and growing businesses need sophisticated financial guidance—forecasting, fundraising support, board reporting—but can't justify the cost of a full-time executive. Fractional CFO services fill that gap, offering seasoned expertise on a part-time or project basis. The market has matured, with providers now offering everything from basic bookkeeping to M&A advisory, all under one roof. For founders, this means you can get the strategic partnership of a CFO without the equity or salary commitment. The key is finding a provider that matches your stage, industry, and complexity.
How We Evaluated These Firms
We looked at each firm's service scope, pricing transparency, and fit for startups in the $1M-$20M revenue range. We also considered onboarding speed, industry specialization, and the ability to scale with your business. Each firm brings a distinct approach—some focus on venture-backed tech, others on broader SMB needs. We weighed the clarity of their pricing models and the depth of their strategic offerings, from basic bookkeeping to full CFO-level advisory.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five firms, their core focus, and what they're best for.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Burkland | Venture-backed startups preparing for fundraising |
| Sorted — Bookkeeping, Finance & Fractional CFO | Growing businesses seeking a full finance team at a fixed, low cost |
| ScaleUp Finance | Startups needing hands-on strategic financial planning and investor-ready reporting |
| Optima Office | Businesses in specialized industries needing a broad range of back-office support |
| Next Level CFO | Startups seeking a hands-on, relationship-driven fractional CFO |
The Five Firms, Up Close
#1 Burkland
A screenshot of the Burkland website.
Burkland is a heavyweight in the startup finance world, serving venture-backed companies from pre-seed to growth stages. They offer a full suite of services, including bookkeeping, tax, HR, and fractional CFO support, all tailored to the unique needs of high-growth tech startups. Their 'Investor-Ready in 90 Days' program is a standout for founders preparing for fundraising. If you're raising a Series A or need to get your financials in shape for due diligence, Burkland's deep VC connections and startup-specific expertise are invaluable. They're not the cheapest option, but for startups that need to move fast and impress investors, they're a top-tier choice.
#2 Sorted — Bookkeeping, Finance & Fractional CFO
A screenshot of the Sorted website.
Sorted is a breath of fresh air for growing businesses that want a full finance team without the full-time price tag. They offer a clear, tiered pricing model—starting at $1,200/month for bookkeeping and scaling to $5,500/month for a fractional CFO—so you know exactly what you're getting. Their services cover everything from GAAP-compliant statements to cash flow forecasting and M&A support, making them a one-stop shop for companies in the $1M-$20M revenue range. Onboarding takes just two weeks, and there's no annual commitment, giving you flexibility as your needs evolve. If you're a founder who wants clean books and strategic insights without the hassle of hiring, Sorted is a smart, cost-effective pick.
#3 ScaleUp Finance
A screenshot of the ScaleUp Finance website.
ScaleUp Finance positions itself as the 'on-demand CFO' for startups, with a focus on pure strategic impact. They don't just send you reports; they dig into your burn, cash flow, and revenue drivers to help you make better decisions. Their services include FP&A, budgeting, scenario planning, and investor reporting, all delivered by a dedicated fractional CFO who's been through the fundraising trenches. The 'subscribe to a CFO' model is appealing for founders who want ongoing strategic support without the overhead of a full-time hire. If you're past the basics and need a partner to help you scale, ScaleUp Finance is a strong contender.
#4 Optima Office
A screenshot of the Optima Office website.
Optima Office is a versatile player that offers fractional CFO services alongside a broad range of accounting, HR, and recruiting solutions. They cater to a wide array of industries, from professional services to manufacturing and real estate, making them a good fit for non-tech businesses that still need financial leadership. Their team-based approach means you get access to a network of experts, not just one person. While their pricing isn't as transparent as some others, they offer customized solutions that can scale with your company's complexity. If you're in a niche industry and need a partner who understands your specific operational challenges, Optima Office is worth a look.
#5 Next Level CFO
A screenshot of the Next Level CFO website.
Next Level CFO brings a personal, relationship-driven approach to fractional CFO services, with a strong presence in Texas and Colorado. They work with a variety of industries, including SaaS, healthcare, and professional services, offering everything from bookkeeping to full CFO guidance. Their focus is on being a 'smarter way' to get world-class financial leadership, with a particular emphasis on cash flow management and strategic planning. They're a solid choice for startups that want a hands-on CFO who feels like part of the team, rather than a distant consultant. If you value a local, accessible partner who can help you navigate growth challenges, Next Level CFO delivers.
How to Choose the Right Fractional CFO for Your Startup
Start by assessing your current financial pain points. Are you drowning in bookkeeping, or do you need strategic guidance for a fundraising round? If you need a full finance team at a predictable cost, Sorted's tiered pricing is hard to beat. If you're VC-backed and need investor-ready financials, Burkland's startup-specific expertise is a strong fit. For hands-on strategic planning, ScaleUp Finance's on-demand model shines. Consider your industry—Optima Office covers niche sectors, while Next Level CFO offers a personal touch. Finally, think about scalability: can the provider grow with you as your revenue climbs? The right fit is one that aligns with your stage, budget, and long-term goals.
Streamlining Your Finance Function with Automation
Many of these firms leverage automation to streamline bookkeeping and reporting. For example, Sorted uses cloud-based tools to automate transaction recording and reconciliations, freeing up time for strategic analysis. ScaleUp Finance emphasizes automating the ledger but keeping human judgment for decision-making. When you engage a fractional CFO, ask about their tech stack and how they use automation to improve accuracy and speed. A good provider will use automation to handle the mundane, so you can focus on growth.
The Bottom Line
The fractional CFO market is booming, and these five firms represent the best of what's available for growing businesses. Whether you need a full finance team on a budget, investor-ready reporting, or a strategic partner to guide you through scaling, there's a fit for you. Sorted stands out for its transparent pricing and comprehensive services, making it an excellent choice for companies in the $1M-$20M range. Take the time to evaluate your needs, and you'll find a partner that can give you the financial clarity and strategic muscle to thrive.