Understanding Virtual CFO Packages
Virtual CFO services are typically structured into packages based on the level of support you need. These packages balance predictable pricing for clients with sustainable engagement structures for providers.
While every provider structures their offerings differently, most follow similar patterns with entry-level, mid-tier, and premium options. Understanding these tiers helps you identify what you actually need and avoid overpaying for services you won't use.
Package vs. Hourly
While some providers offer hourly-only arrangements, package-based pricing is generally better for both parties. Packages encourage proactive work and regular engagement, while hourly arrangements can create disincentives for asking questions or seeking advice.
Entry-Level Packages
Entry-level virtual CFO packages provide foundational financial leadership at accessible price points. Ideal for smaller businesses or those new to CFO services.
Typical Entry Package Details
- Price range: $2,000-$4,000/month
- Hours included: 8-15 hours/month
- Best for: $500K-$3M revenue businesses
What's Usually Included
- Monthly financial statement review and analysis
- Basic cash flow forecasting (13-week)
- Bi-weekly or monthly check-in calls
- Annual budget development assistance
- Email access for questions
- Basic KPI dashboard setup
What's Typically Not Included
- Complex financial modeling
- Board meeting attendance
- Fundraising support
- M&A advisory
- Unlimited access/calls
Entry Package Best Fit
Small businesses that need financial discipline and basic strategic guidance but don't have complex operations. Companies transitioning from accountant-only support to strategic financial leadership.
Growth Packages
Growth-tier packages provide more comprehensive support for businesses with increasing complexity or those preparing for significant milestones like fundraising or major expansion.
Typical Growth Package Details
- Price range: $5,000-$10,000/month
- Hours included: 15-30 hours/month
- Best for: $3M-$15M revenue businesses
What's Usually Included
Everything in entry-level, plus:
- Weekly strategy calls with leadership
- Rolling forecasts with scenario analysis
- Board meeting preparation and attendance (quarterly)
- Basic fundraising support (pitch review, model preparation)
- Pricing and profitability analysis
- Finance team oversight and mentoring
- Vendor/partner financial negotiations
- More sophisticated financial modeling
Growth Package Value Drivers
At this tier, your virtual CFO becomes a true strategic partner, not just a financial reviewer. The additional hours allow for proactive work—identifying opportunities and risks before they become obvious, and building systems that scale.
Growth Package Best Fit
Companies with real complexity: multiple product lines, significant inventory, a finance team to manage, or active board oversight. Businesses preparing for their first major funding round or considering acquisition opportunities.
Custom Packages
Many providers offer custom-structured engagements for situations that don't fit standard packages:
Project-Based Packages
For specific initiatives like fundraising, M&A, or system implementations, project-based packages provide intensive support for a defined period with clear deliverables.
- Example: Series A fundraising support - $15,000-$40,000 total
- Duration: Typically 2-4 months
- Deliverables: Financial model, data room, investor materials, due diligence support
Interim CFO Packages
When you need full-time coverage for a defined period (CFO transition, leave coverage, post-acquisition integration), interim packages provide intensive support:
- Price range: $20,000-$40,000+/month
- Duration: 3-12 months typically
- Coverage: Near full-time equivalent
Hybrid Packages
Some engagements combine virtual CFO services with other finance functions:
- CFO + Controller: Strategic leadership plus accounting oversight
- CFO + FP&A: Strategy plus detailed financial planning support
- CFO + Accounting: Full finance department outsourcing
Choosing the Right Package
Selecting the right package involves matching your actual needs with available offerings. Consider these factors:
Business Complexity
- Simple operations: Entry package likely sufficient
- Multiple entities, complex revenue: Growth package minimum
- Active M&A, fundraising, boards: Premium package needed
Internal Finance Capability
- No finance staff: May need more CFO hours or bundled accounting
- Strong controller: CFO can focus on strategy, potentially lower package
- Junior staff only: CFO time for mentoring and oversight needed
Upcoming Events
- Fundraising: Temporarily increase to growth/premium during process
- Acquisition: Project-based or premium package for due diligence
- Stable operations: Can optimize to lower package
Start Small Philosophy
When uncertain, start with a lighter package and increase as needed. Good providers encourage this approach—they'd rather demonstrate value and grow the relationship than over-sell and under-deliver.
Package Comparison Table
Here's a side-by-side comparison of typical virtual CFO packages:
| Feature | Entry | Growth | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $2K-$4K | $5K-$10K | $12K-$20K+ |
| Hours/Month | 8-15 | 15-30 | 30-50+ |
| Check-in Frequency | Bi-weekly | Weekly | Multiple/week |
| Financial Statements | Monthly review | Deep analysis | Continuous |
| Cash Flow Forecasting | Basic 13-week | Rolling + scenarios | Comprehensive |
| Board Meetings | - | Quarterly | All meetings |
| Fundraising Support | - | Basic | Full support |
| M&A Support | - | Limited | Full support |
| Best For Revenue | $500K-$3M | $3M-$15M | $15M+ |