Do You Need A CFO … Yet?
In the early days of a startup, a company’s financial information needs are usually less complicated. As long as the books are up to date and the founders have visibility…
What Lenders and Investors Look for in Financials
Whether you are looking to secure a bank loan to fund operations or raising capital from investors to accelerate growth, one thing remains constant: your financials will be scrutinized. Lenders…
Unlocking Potential: BrightIron’s 2025 in Review
Every year, working at BrightIron teaches us something new about what it really means to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with founders. But 2025 felt different. This was the year our team leaned…
95% of Startups Exit Through M&A — Here’s How to Be Ready
Most founders don’t wake up thinking about selling their company, but the reality is that M&A is the most common exit path for startups – about 95% of startups that…
Avoiding an ESOP Flop: Part II –Mechanics and Guidelines
Practical Guidelines for Building (and Protecting) Your Option Pool Equity is one of the most powerful tools early-stage founders have to attract and retain key team members. In the early…
5 Startup Cost Cutting Tips to Extend Your Runway
In today’s environment, where capital is harder to come by, startups need to prioritize efficiency over growth-at-all-costs. The path to breakeven isn’t just about survival—it’s about taking control of your…
Startup Finance: Common Mistakes to Avoid for New Founders
Starting a new business is an exciting time. You’ve got an incredible idea, and you’re ready to transform it into a thriving business. But before you dive into building your…
From Bookkeepers, Controllers and CFOs: Clarifying Financial Roles within Startups
I frequently hear people refer to Bookkeepers, Controllers, and CFOs interchangeably. As outlined in our previous article on the differences between Bookkeepers, Controllers, and CFOs, while these roles may have some…
Financial Information You’ll Need Before Your Next Funding Round
If you’re a startup, it’s crucial to have your financial information in order before approaching potential investors. The last thing you want is to have a lack of financial information…
Funding your Startup through Venture Debt: What You Need to Know
Fundraising is an important part of any founder’s startup journey. When people speak about fundraising, they normally think of raising capital from investors, such as venture capitalists, by selling shares…