Frequently Asked Questions (And Helpful Answers).
Here are some of the most common questions and answers regarding our services.
Getting Started with airCFO
Q. What makes airCFO different?
Startup Experience: We have over 10 years of experience working with startups, so we know what it takes to help them succeed. We have a proven track record of providing our clients with the financial support they need to grow their businesses.
Startup Professionals: Our team is made up of experienced accountants, financial analysts, and tax experts who are passionate about helping startups succeed. We understand the unique challenges that startups face and we are committed to providing them with the personalized support they need.
Software Expertise: We know the best fintech software for startups and we can help you choose the right software for your needs. We can also help you integrate your software so that you can get the most out of it. Learn more about our software selection process here.
Tech-enabled: We use cutting-edge technology to automate tasks and streamline our processes. This frees up our time so that we can focus on providing you with the best possible service. Learn more about our tech-enabled client deliverables here.
Q. How long has airCFO been providing services to startups?
Since 2013: We have been providing services to startups since 2013. In that time, we have supported over 350 startups through their early years and beyond. Our goal is to help startups achieve their goals, whether that is acquisition, exit, or continued growth.
Q. What industries have you worked with?
Most tech industries: We have worked with startups in most tech industries, including business services, information technology, finance technology, health and bio-tech, real estate, construction, hospitality, and aerospace technology. We are always looking to expand our knowledge and expertise in new industries, so if you have a startup in a different industry, please reach out to us.
Q. What states does airCFO operate in?
We operate in all 50 states in the United States and have clients located across the country.
Q. Where is airCFO located?
Though we started in Cleveland, our team has been fully remote since the summer of 2019. With the ability to find great talent across the country, and deep roots in the coastal ecosystems, we have the best of both worlds.
Q. Can you provide references from other startups you've worked with?
Yes, and we have a testimonial page: You can read testimonials from our clients on our testimonial page. We are also happy to connect you with a live reference if you would like to speak to someone who has worked with us in the past.
Contracts & Pricing with airCFO
Q. How are your contracts structured?
Month-to-month with no long-term commitments: Our contracts are month-to-month, so you can cancel at any time without penalty. This gives you the flexibility to adjust your services as your needs change.
We put the work on us to continuously add value: We believe that the best way to keep our clients happy is to consistently deliver value. That's why we have a month-to-month contract structure. It motivates us to keep working hard to earn your business.
Q. What is airCFO's cancellation policy?
30-day cancellation notice: We ask for a 30-day cancellation notice. This gives us time to transition your services to your team or to a new provider.
Q. How do you determine price?
We consider your funding stage and scope of work: We price our services based on your funding stage and the scope of work you need. We want to make sure that our pricing is fair and competitive.
We offer a core package with a monthly, flat-rate price: Our core package includes a set of essential services that most startups need. We also offer add-on services for additional fees.
Q. Are there any additional fees that might be incurred outside of the standard service package?
Yes, for ad hoc work and one-time projects: We charge hourly for ad hoc work and one-time projects. This ensures that you are only charged for the services that you use.
Communication and Reporting with airCFO
Q. How do you communicate with your clients?
We use a combination of Slack, email, and live calls: We use a variety of communication methods to stay in touch with our clients, including Slack, email, and live calls. We find that this combination of methods allows us to communicate effectively and efficiently.
We suggest at least one live, monthly check-in: This allows us to discuss any pressing issues and to get feedback on our services.
We find both async and live communication is necessary to best keep each other in the loop.
Q. How do you present financial reports and statements to clients? Can I see a sample?
We run a standard accounting month-end close each month and once the books are closed present deliverables shortly thereafter: Most reports are prepared monthly, however some are weekly. Here is a link walking through some of the sample reports we can deliver.
Q. Are you available for ad-hoc financial advice or consultations beyond regular reporting?
Yes, we are available for ad-hoc financial advice and consultations: We understand that startups have changing needs, and we are always happy to adapt our services to meet those needs.
Collaboration and Accessibility with airCFO:
Q. How do you collaborate with other members of my startup team, such as CFOs or financial analysts?
We collaborate with the key stakeholders in your startup, such as the CEO, COO, CFO, or financial analyst. We prefer to use shared Slack channels so that everyone on your team (and our team) is always up-to-date on the latest information.
Q. Are you available for meetings or consultations beyond standard business hours when needed?
We are available for meetings or consultations beyond standard business hours when needed, but this is not the norm. We understand that things can come up that require an evening message or weekend text, but we generally stick to standard business hours for the sake of our team members.
Q. Will I have a dedicated person(s) on my account?
Yes, you will have at least one dedicated person on your account: Depending on the scope of work, you may have a few dedicated people.
Services Provided by airCFO
Q. What specific accounting and bookkeeping services do you offer to startups?
We offer a wide range of accounting and bookkeeping services to startups, including:
- Accounts payable
- Accounts receivable
- General ledger
- Payroll
- Tax preparation
- Financial reporting
- Financial analysis
- Budgeting and forecasting
- Fundraising support
We can handle most things that a typical startup will need. To see more detail, please visit our what-we-do page.
Q. How do you tailor your services to meet the unique needs of startups?
We tailor our services to meet the unique needs of each startup by understanding their specific goals and objectives. We also consider their stage of development, industry, and budget.
Q. Can you help with financial forecasting and budgeting for a growing startup?
Yes, we can help you with financial forecasting and budgeting for your growing startup: We have a team of experienced accountants and finance professionals who can help you develop a sound financial plan. Please see additional details here.
Q. Do you offer virtual or in-person services?
Virtual: In-person is possible, but we rarely find it’s necessary.
Q. Can you assist with fundraising activities, such as preparing financial statements for potential investors?
Yes. This is a core competency for our team: We have a team of experienced accountants and financial analysts who can help you prepare your financial statements in a clear and concise way that will impress potential investors.
airCFO's Recommended Technology and Tools
Q. What accounting software do you use or recommend for startups?
We partner with the best fintech solutions for our clients. We have experience with a variety of accounting software, and we can recommend the best one for your specific needs. Here is a page explaining how we choose software for our clients and some specific software recommendations.
Q. Are you experienced in integrating accounting software with other business tools and systems?
Yes, we are experienced in integrating accounting software with other business tools and systems. We believe that integrated software systems are the best way to reduce manual work and data entry. This frees up your time so that you can focus on growing your business.
The Onboarding Process with airCFO
Q. How long will onboarding take?
Onboarding generally takes 30-60 days. Our dedicated onboarding team will work with you to set up your financial back office, which may include initial system setup and historical cleanup. The exact time frame will depend on your specific needs.
Q. When do I meet my dedicated account manager?
You will meet your dedicated account manager (AKA Point of Contact or POC) within the first 30 days of onboarding. Your POC will be responsible for overseeing your account and ensuring that you receive the best possible service.
Q. What is needed from me (client POC) during the onboarding process?
You will need to provide us with some basic information, such as your contact information, financial statements, and bank account information. You will also need to complete an onboarding checklist.
Q. How much time is required of me?
The onboarding process is typically very efficient, and we will work with you to minimize the amount of time required. The Onboarding Checklist takes 1-2 hours to complete for most clients, and the Onboarding Call is typically one hour.
Q. How do I communicate with the Onboarding Team?
airCFO utilizes email, Slack, and Google Meets for communication based on the your preference.
Q. Will airCFO work with my prior accounting firm during the onboarding process?
Yes, we will work with your prior accounting firm if you would like us to. We can either work directly with them or communicate our requests through you.
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About air CFO
airCFO is so much more than an accounting firm; we pride ourselves on helping startups succeed. Our proprietary tech tools and dedicated team of finance, accounting, and people ops experts deliver optimized services tailored to each company’s unique needs. We partner with founders to demystify complex issues, steering startups clear of roadblocks from their Day 1 through to exit. Unlike siloed software tools or disjointed independent contractors, airCFO offers integrated specialized support and true finance leadership. Our hands-on approach means we rapidly add value as strategic advisors who understand the startup journey. Inside 200+ of the world’s top startups, airCFO takes care of the back office so founders can focus on driving growth.
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