Virtual CFO Services for Founders Who Need Strategic Finance Now
A virtual CFO gives you a senior finance partner for planning, fundraising and big decisions, without the cost of a full-time executive.
What a virtual CFO does
A CFO turns financial information into decisions. That includes setting budgets, forecasting cash, preparing for investors, negotiating with banks and telling you honestly whether a plan adds up. A virtual CFO does this part-time and remotely, usually alongside your bookkeeping and accounting team.
When you need one
- You are planning to raise money or take on debt
- Cash feels tight even though sales are growing
- Investors or your board want better reports
- You are making a big hire, expansion or acquisition decision
- Your finance leader has left and you need cover
DNA Growth cites $250K to $400K a year as the cost of a full-time CFO on its virtual CFO services page, which is why many growing companies choose a virtual or fractional model first.
What you get from DNA Growth
DNA Growth's virtual CFO support covers driver-based financial models, rolling forecasts, cash flow and runway planning, board reporting and fundraising preparation. Because the same firm can run your bookkeeping, financial reporting and FP&A, the CFO is backed by a team rather than working alone. DNA Growth also has state pages, for example virtual CFO services in New York.
Choosing among virtual CFO firms
Look for experience in your industry, sample reports (with confidential details removed), clarity on what is included each month and whether the firm can also handle day-to-day accounting. DNA Growth's article on controller vs CFO helps decide which role you actually need. Fractional CFOs who want back-office support for their own clients should see white-label CFO services or DNA Growth's fractional CFO program.
Virtual CFO vs. bookkeeper vs. controller
- Bookkeeper: records transactions and reconciles accounts
- Controller: runs the close, controls and accurate reporting
- Virtual CFO: plans, forecasts, raises capital and advises on strategy
Growing businesses usually need all three functions, but not three full-time people. DNA Growth can cover each level, so the virtual CFO works from reliable numbers prepared by the team below.
Same service, different angle
This page is written for business owners. Read the other versions if they fit you better:
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a virtual CFO and a fractional CFO?
Very little. Both are part-time CFOs. "Virtual" emphasizes remote work; "fractional" emphasizes part-time.
How much do virtual CFO services cost?
It depends on scope and hours. DNA Growth notes a full-time CFO costs $250K to $400K a year; contact the team for a virtual CFO quote.
Can a virtual CFO help me raise money?
Yes. Financial models, investor reporting and diligence preparation are core parts of the role.