Fractional CFO Services & Accounting Since 2016
Signal CFO provides fractional CFO services, accounting, financial modeling, and business strategy for growth-minded entrepreneurs. We advocate for innovative founders and leadership teams who need expert financial guidance without the cost of a full-time CFO.
Since 2016, Signal CFO has served over 100 companies across more than 12 industries, managing more than $181.8 million in revenue. Our team brings deep expertise in financial planning, operational strategy, board advisory, and continuous planning to help businesses scale with clarity and confidence.
Our Services
- Fractional CFO Services — Strategic financial leadership on a part-time basis. We integrate directly with your leadership team to drive growth, manage risk, and build financial infrastructure that scales.
- Accounting & Bookkeeping — Accurate, timely books managed by professionals who understand the bigger picture.
- Financial Modeling — Dynamic, driver-based models built for real-world decision-making. From three-statement models to scenario analysis, we give you the tools to plan with precision.
- Continuous Planning — Rolling forecasts and operational plans that adapt to your business in real time.
- Board Advisory — Presentation-ready board decks and investor reporting that communicate your financial story clearly and credibly.
Why Work With a Fractional CFO?
A fractional CFO gives growing companies access to senior financial expertise at a fraction of the cost of a full-time hire. Whether you are preparing for a fundraise, navigating a cash flow challenge, or building the financial infrastructure to support rapid growth, a fractional CFO provides the strategic guidance you need — when you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a fractional CFO the same as a virtual CFO, part-time CFO or outsourced CFO?
The name Fractional CFO is often used interchangeably with Part-time CFO, Virtual CFO, Interim CFO, Outsourced CFO and Consultant CFO. These terms are frequently used to describe a financial management expert who provides support to a company on a part-time or as-needed basis. The specific term used may depend on the nature of the engagement and the specific needs of the business.
• Part-time CFO: Works for a company on a part-time basis, normally for a fixed number of hours per week or month.
• Virtual CFO: Provides financial management support remotely, using video conferencing, email, and text messaging.
• Interim CFO: A temporary CFO during a transition period, such as during a search for a full-time CFO or rapid growth.
• Outsourced CFO: Engaged on a contract basis, rather than as a full-time employee.
• Consultant CFO: Provides independent advice and support, typically on a project or limited scope basis.
What is a fractional CFO?
A Fractional CFO is a financial expert who provides CFO-level support to companies on a part-time basis. Unlike a full-time CFO, a fractional CFO is engaged on a part-time basis, providing the company with the financial expertise it needs without the cost and overhead associated with a full-time employee.
What services do fractional CFOs provide?
Fractional CFOs provide a range of services including financial modeling, strategic and operational planning, cashflow forecasting, profitability analysis of business units, trend analysis, long-range planning and quantification of goals, merger and acquisition assistance, bookkeeping, accounting, and month-end financial closeout. Some Fractional CFOs will also liaison with a company's bankers, attorneys and strategic vendors. SignalCFO provides all of these services.
Who uses fractional CFO services?
Fractional CFO services are often used by SMB companies with revenues of $500,000 to $25 million, who are growing and scaling and need access to financial expertise but are not ready to afford the cost of a full-time CFO. Fractional CFOs can also be used by larger companies looking for specific financial management support for a project or to strengthen the resources of the existing finance team.
Note: SMBs are small to midsize businesses often with fewer than 100 employees.
What are the benefits of using a fractional CFO?
There are many benefits of using a fractional CFO for small and growing businesses:
• Access to expert financial advice and guidance: Strategic financial planning, analysis, and decision-making support.
• Flexibility: Engaged on a part-time basis, tailored to your specific needs.
• Improved financial management: Better financial processes and systems leading to greater efficiency.
• Enhanced decision-making: Valuable insights and data-driven recommendations for more informed decisions.
• Cost-effective solution: Hired for a fraction of the cost of a full-time CFO.
How do fractional CFOs work with their clients?
Fractional CFOs typically work with their clients on a regular basis, providing financial reporting, analysis, and support. This includes regular meetings and communication to review the financial performance of the company and suggest any necessary adjustments to a company's financial and operating plan. Fractional CFOs also take a proactive approach to financial management, working with the client to identify areas of risk and opportunity and develop strategies to address these issues.
What industries does SignalCFO serve?
SignalCFO serves a variety of industries including: Software as a Service (SaaS), Technology, Manufacturing, Professional Services, Engineering, Architecture, Data Science, Digital Marketing, Property Management, Food Service, and Online Retail.
Insights & Resources
By Brady Whitesel — June 5, 2026
Profitability doesn't improve with time or arrive by accident. It is built through disciplined decisions, financial visibility, and intentional leadership.
By Brady Whitesel — June 5, 2026
AI accelerates work, but it cannot replace mentorship. Why developing the next generation of leaders still depends on experienced people, not algorithms.
By Brady Whitesel — May 29, 2026
A fractional CFO on how growing up with limited resources shaped his views on risk, capital discipline, and helping business owners make smarter decisions.
By Brady Whitesel — May 19, 2026
AI is not replacing CFOs — it is changing how they work. Here is how AI is reshaping financial leadership, judgment, and strategic decision-making.
By Brady Whitesel — May 13, 2026
AI sounds confident even when it's wrong. In a world full of noise, discernment is what keeps leaders grounded — and grounded leaders make better decisions.
By Brady Whitesel — May 8, 2026
Signal CFO founder Brady Whitesel joins Jayson Manship on the Authentic and Agentic podcast to talk entrepreneurship, financial leadership, and AI in business.
By Brady Whitesel — August 21, 2022
An in-depth look at what a fractional CFO does, when you need one, and how to get maximum value from the engagement.
By Brady Whitesel — March 19, 2023
Should you hire a full-time CFO or go fractional? We break down the costs, benefits, and the right fit for your stage of growth.
By Brady Whitesel — February 12, 2023
The 13-week cash flow forecast is one of the most powerful tools in a CFO's arsenal. Here's how to build and use one effectively.
By Brady Whitesel — February 15, 2023
Cash flow is the lifeblood of any business. Discover strategies to diagnose problems and build a more resilient financial foundation.
By Brady Whitesel — March 1, 2023
Don't wait until it's too late. These red flags can signal trouble ahead — and what to do when you spot them.
By Brady Whitesel — February 8, 2023
Financial modeling transforms raw numbers into actionable insight. Learn how to use it to guide strategy and investor conversations.
By Brady Whitesel — March 31, 2023
What separates the most successful entrepreneurs from the rest? We explore the habits, mindsets, and strategies that drive lasting success.
By Brady Whitesel — August 23, 2022
Success in business isn't random. We outline a practical, repeatable formula for building a company that thrives — financially and culturally.
By Brady Whitesel — August 23, 2022
Finding the right investment partner is about more than capital. Discover what to look for and how to structure the relationship for long-term success.
By Barry Kehl — March 23, 2023
Working capital management is critical to business survival. Here are 20 proven strategies to optimize your cash position and fuel growth.
By Brady Whitesel — July 14, 2022
The competitive advantages that matter most have shifted. Here's how forward-thinking entrepreneurs are pulling ahead of the pack.
By Brady Whitesel — March 9, 2023
Accurate sales forecasting is the backbone of smart financial planning. Learn a straightforward process to build forecasts that actually work.
By Brady Whitesel — August 23, 2022
Before chasing new markets or products, learn how to fully unlock the growth potential already sitting in your existing business.
By Barry Kehl — March 23, 2023
A clear, jargon-free breakdown of what working capital is, why it matters, and how to use it as a lever for business performance.
By Brady Whitesel — February 18, 2023
Most business failures are preventable. Learn the most common missteps that sink small businesses — and how to avoid them.
Locations Served
Signal CFO serves growth-minded businesses across the United States, with a local presence in Indianapolis, Indiana. Learn more about our fractional CFO services in Indianapolis.
Featured On
Signal CFO founder Brady Whitesel was recently featured on Authentic and Agentic with Jayson Manship, discussing fractional CFO services, financial strategy, and how growth-minded entrepreneurs can build durable businesses.
Get In Touch
Contact Signal CFO at hello@signal-cfo.com.