
What Does a Fractional CFO Actually Do? (And When You Need One)
Many business owners assume CFOs only belong in large corporations, but today, even small and mid-sized businesses can access high-level financial leadership through a fractional CFO. A fractional CFO is an outsourced financial executive who works with your company part-time or on a project basis.
What they do:
Build budgets and financial forecasts
Improve cash flow
Help you understand your numbers
Prepare you for lenders, investors, or audits
Create systems, processes, and financial reporting that support growth
Advise on pricing, hiring, and strategic decisions
When you need one:
You’re growing quickly but feel behind financially
Cash flow is tight or unpredictable
You need clean reports for banks, investors, or potential buyer
You’re making major decisions without clear financial insight
A fractional CFO gives you the financial clarity and strategy of a full-time CFO without the full-time cost.