Frequently Asked Questions

A fractional CFO is a senior financial executive who works with your business on a part-time or contract basis rather than as a full-time employee. You get the same strategic financial leadership — forecasting, planning, reporting, risk management, and decision support — without the cost or commitment of a full-time executive hire.

A bookkeeper records transactions; an accountant ensures tax compliance, regulatory compliance, and the accuracy of financial records. A fractional CFO operates at the strategic level — looking forward, not backward. The focus is on where your business is headed and how to get there, including cash flow management, financial planning, and supporting key decisions.

A business should consider a fractional CFO when it has outgrown basic bookkeeping and accounting support but isn’t ready — or doesn’t need — a full-time financial executive. Common triggers include preparing for growth or a major project, needing cash flow clarity, raising capital, or navigating a period of operational change.

We work with growth-stage companies and startups across industries. Clients range from early-stage ventures — including those operating on SBIR/STTR Phase I funding or early private investment — to established businesses generating several million in annual revenue that have outgrown basic bookkeeping and accounting support but aren’t ready for a full-time CFO.

Every engagement is tailored to the client’s needs. Our core offering is an ongoing retainer partnership, which begins with a structured onboarding and settles into a consistent monthly rhythm. We also work with clients on project-based engagements. See our full process →

Getting started begins with an initial consultation, followed by a discovery meeting before we put anything in writing. The timeline from first conversation to signed engagement varies by client, but we move at the pace that makes sense for your business.

We offer both retainer and project-based models, including entry-level options for early-stage startups. The best way to get a sense of what an engagement might look like is to book a free consultation.

Yes. While we’re based in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and maintain a presence at Innovate Newport in Rhode Island, we work with clients remotely and are not limited by geography or industry. Our blue economy focus reflects where we’ve built particular depth — it doesn’t define who we serve.

Proposals are valid for 30 days from the date issued. After that period, scope is subject to review and adjustment to reflect your current situation. Within an active engagement, we expect scope to evolve — that’s a normal part of the relationship, and we manage it collaboratively.

Yes. Confidentiality is a foundational part of every client engagement. We do not share client information and operate under standard professional confidentiality obligations.

An fCFO engagement works best when leadership is accessible and engaged. We’ll be upfront about what we need from you — typically participation in regular meetings and timely access to financial data. The more aligned we are, the more effective the engagement.