Kruze clients are twice as likely to get acquired as the average startup.  Find out why here

What is Finance as a Service, and how does it benefit startups?

Finance as a Service (FaaS) is a term that refers to companies that offer outsourced, fully integrated business financial strategy, financial planning, and accounting service lines. FaaS companies benefit startups by providing a full range of financial services that are consolidated through a single provider – it’s like having multiple integrated teams that cost significantly less than hiring and managing your own financial departments. FaaS services include accounting, controllership, financial planning, business strategy, and tax filing and compliance.

Kruze’s Finance Team - Your Outsourced Finance Partner

Kruze’s Finance team goes beyond the typical “finance as a service” offering, helping founders build and manage budgets, prepare for board meetings, track cash burn and get a greater return on their cash position.

Our team is staffed by former investment bankers, venture capitalists, startup executives, and FP&A professionals. We have experience helping founders get ready for fundraises, compare venture debt term sheets, get great (and safe!) yield on their cash positions and more. 

Some of our services include:

Reach out to us to see if any or all of our advisory offerings are right for your startup!

FaaS isn’t the same as traditional accounting

Finance as a Service firms operate differently from traditional accounting, bookkeeping or advisory companies. FaaS companies leverage new technologies and scalable systems to increase their agility and responsiveness, providing customized financial reporting and advisory services in real time. The services offered by FaaS firms include:

  • Accounting and general ledger
  • Forecasting and planning
  • Payroll
  • Billing and invoicing
  • Spend management

Kruze’s team goes beyond these controller type projects and acts as a true finance advisor to startups:

The Kruze Finance Team

Scott Orn, Chief Operating Officer, CFA

Scott Orn – Chief Operating Officer, CFA

Scott Orn is the COO at Kruze Consulting.

In addition to his Operations responsibilities, Scott is a leader in the finance practice at Kruze. Scott uses his extensive experience with fundraising and institutional investing to support startups by developing their finance function, providing fundraising strategy, and facilitating due diligence. Scott holds the CFA designation (Chartered Financial Analyst), has an MBA from Kellogg and an undergraduate business degree from CAL Berkeley, and passed the Series 7.

Before Kruze Consulting, Scott was a Partner at Lighthouse Capital, a private debt fund that lends to startups. In addition, Scott ran Community Products at Callisto Media. Prior to joining Lighthouse, Scott spent three years in Technology Mergers & Acquisitions at Hambrecht & Quist, which was later acquired by JPMorgan Chase.

In his spare time, Scott publishes the Founders & Friends Podcast, which interviews Startup CEO’s, Investors and Other Service Providers in the Startup Ecosystem.

Scott also co-founded Ben’s Friends, a 501C3 non-profit Internet patient support community for people with rare diseases.

Healy Jones – VP Financial Strategy

Healy Jones – VP Financial Strategy

Healy Jones is the VP of Financial Strategy at Kruze.

Healy leverages his expertise to help Kruze clients understand their financing options and to optimize their financial metrics. Companies that Healy has worked with have raised over $1 billion in early-stage funding.

Healy is a startup founder, former VC and has been an executive at multiple VC-backed startups.

Healy is frequently quoted in technology publications such as TechCrunch, Crunchbase, Inc. and Protocol on trends in startup finance.

He was an investor with Atlas Venture’s technology venture capital group, and started his VC career with Summit Partners. He started a bootstrapped company that he successfully exited, and was an exec at Sunrun prior to and after its IPO.

He has an undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College, and an MBA from Wharton. Healy has invested in over 60 startups, with a number of successful exits and multiple unicorns.

He lives in the SF area and spends his free time running around after his two kids.

Kim Fresenburg – Lead Finance Consultant

Kim Fresenburg works as the lead finance consultant on Kruze’s Finance team. Her responsibilities include advising startup founders on financial strategy and helping them make informed decisions. Kim develops financial models and projections to help clients improve their operations. and achieve growth and fundraising goals.

Prior to joining Kruze Consulting, Kim was a PhD candidate and lecturer in finance at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She was also a Senior Finance Analyst at CenturyLink and a Lead Finance Analyst at Lumen Technologies.

Kim holds both an MBA and BSBA from University of Missouri Trulaske College of Business. In her spare time she competes in marathons and triathlons.

Gabe Haakonson - Senior Financial Analyst

Gabe Haakonson works as a senior financial analyst on Kruze’s finance team. As part of the finance team, Gabe assists clients with a wide array of financial services including financial modeling, due diligence support, board & investor reporting, variance analyses, ad-hoc projects, and more.

Gabe began his career in public accounting with CLA before pivoting to financial services in the startup world. After a few years of providing financial services to CPG clients, he became interested in the venture-backed tech startup world, which led him to join the wonderful team at Kruze.

Gabe holds Bachelor’s degrees in finance and accounting from the University of Minnesota where he was a member of the honors program. He spends his free time reading and practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

FaaS is a better fit for startups

Finance as a Service has grown as technology has influenced the role of finance and accounting within businesses. Prior to FaaS, the business accounting function was a limited role, typically focused on bookkeeping and tax preparation. Companies like Intuit used software like Intuit’s QuickBooks to refine and streamline the general ledger – the basic accounting record that contains all of a company’s financial information. 

With the advent of cloud computing, accounting software companies have been able to extend their reach deeper into the startup and small business market. QuickBooks Online allowed startups to take advantage of Intuit’s accounting system without a largel investment, and is still the dominant system used by small- to medium-sized businesses.

This in turn led to a surge in software systems for peripheral accounting functions like forecasting, invoicing and billing, payroll, and expense management, providing startup companies and their accounting teams with a broad array of tools to manage day-to-day activities and provide real-time dashboards and information for decision makers. These strong products integrate with each other and with banking solutions, and can be combined into fintech stacks that give startups the same kind of information, insights, and efficiencies that larger companies have, including:

  • Real-time financial data that allows startups to improve cash flow, forecasting, financial planning, and management.
  • Cloud-based technologies that provide easy access to financial systems from anywhere.
  • Less expense, since FaaS firms provide full services while keeping operating costs low.
  • Scalable operating models that rely on subscription-based pricing that can be quickly ramped up or down.

FaaS is based on your startup’s needs

Even small and mid-sized businesses need key financial insights and information, and it’s even more important that those services are accurate, reliable, and timely. But smaller organizations can’t always afford to establish those capabilities internally, and often don’t have the resources to recruit and build financial teams. FaaS providers offer startups the full-scale service of an entire in-house financial team at a much lower cost, and with much less effort. The FaaS model effectively serves:

  • Startups and small businesses with less complicated accounting requirements and smaller transaction volumes, that need to scale as their businesses grow.
  • Larger companies that have more complex accounting needs and larger transaction volumes that need more financial expertise. FaaS firms provide a wide range of controller- and CFO-level services along with tax planning and compliance.
  • Funded startups that require comprehensive financial management to work with private equity and venture capital investors, boards of directors, and management teams. These executive-level and CFO services provide the critical financial reporting and advisory services that funded companies need for deeper analysis and strategy.

Kruze Consulting can help you strategically outsource your financial and accounting needs, providing you with experienced financial experts who can support your startup as it grows. We already have the infrastructure and financial proficiency to quickly onboard your company and help provide your startup with financial reporting, strategy, and critical metrics that you need to focus on your core business. For more information, contact us today.

Treasury and Cash Management Advice

Kruze Consulting’s clients have raised billions in venture capital financing, and now that interest rates are up, founders can earn meaningful yield on that cash. Our finance as a service team specializes in providing tailored treasury and cash management advice to startups, particularly those backed by venture capital. With significant capital at their disposal, these startups need expert guidance to ensure their funds are managed effectively. We understand that unlike large corporations, startups may not have the resources or personnel for sophisticated treasury operations. That’s where we come in. Our experienced team offers insights on preserving capital, maintaining liquidity, managing risks, and optimizing yields within acceptable risk levels. We assist startups in reviewing their investment policy statements and provide recommendations on investment options that align with their financial needs and risk appetite. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of bond ladders, evaluating money market funds, or ensuring compliance with fiduciary responsibilities, Kruze Consulting is here to support startups in making informed and strategic treasury decisions.

Advantages of outsourced bookkeeping from a FaaS firm

Bookkeeping has evolved to more effectively serve clients, and one of the biggest changes has been the growth of remote bookkeeping, part of Finance as a Service (FaaS). Taking advantage of remote bookkeeping services allows your startup to access top-notch financial professionals at a much lower cost. In addition, these seasoned professionals are experienced with current technology including accounting and banking applications, which means your financial operations will be highly scaleable. Your startup will also benefit from the structure and project management that an outsourced FaaS firm can provide to your company.

Does your startup need CFO services from a FaaS company?

Startups that are fundraising often need a CFO, and one way to cost effectively get CFO services is through a Finance as a Service (FaaS) firm. Hiring a fractional CFO through a FaaS company gives your firm the expertise it needs to prepare financial projections, document KPIs, draft financial statements and reports, and many of the other tasks that venture capital relationships require. 

Recent Finance as a Service Blog Posts

Kruze frequently writes about important trends and topics on startup finance and financial services. 

What does the term default mean in finance?
What does the term default mean in finance?
Updated on Sun, 10 November 2024
In the startup world, being in default is not a happy place to be. Being put into default occurs when your startup has borrowed money but can no longer repay the loan.
by
Scott Orn, CFA Chief Operating Officer
Scott Orn, CFA
Chief Operating Officer
What is a Bullet Loan?
What is a Bullet Loan?
Updated on Wed, 25 September 2024
A bullet loan (also called a balloon loan) is a slightly different type of loan that a startup can receive, and it’s a little bit unusual.
by
Scott Orn, CFA Chief Operating Officer
Scott Orn, CFA
Chief Operating Officer
Brex vs Ramp -  Which card is best for startups?
Brex vs Ramp - Which card is best for startups?
Updated on Wed, 25 September 2024
Our CPA team compares Brex and Ramp. Which offers the best card for startups? We look at points, expense management features and more.
by
Healy Jones VP of Financial Strategy
Healy Jones
VP of Financial Strategy

What software does your startup need?

Finance as a Service (FaaS) firms rely on the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and scalability of cloud-financial technology to serve their clients. Early-stage companies have very different fintech needs than other small businesses, since startups can grow quickly, so your accounting software should accommodate that growth. Your system should also be an industry standard that allows any experienced accountant or CPA to use it to provide you with the financial data you need to effectively run your business. In general, the best accounting system for startups is QuickBooks Online, which scales easily, integrates with most other financial systems, and provides excellent financial reporting.

About Us

A CPA Firm Specialized in Startup Accounting & Finance

A CPA Firm Specialized in Startup Accounting & Finance

Startups are our niche, and our passion. Our clients have raised over $15 billion in VC funding. We are one of only a few outsourced accounting firms that specialize in funded early-stage companies - we only offer financial and tax services to fast growing startups in the Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A, Series B and Series C stages.

The Right Accounting Partner for Your Startup’s Next Round

The Right Accounting Partner for Your Startup’s Next Round

We know how to de-risk your startup’s next venture capital round. Our team makes sure you are ready to fly through your next VC’s accounting, HR and tax due diligence. And when you use us as your bookkeeper, we set up and keep up-to-date a due diligence folder so you can get that next round of fundraising.

A Leader in Cloud Accounting Software

A Leader in Cloud Accounting Software

Our practice is built on best of breed cloud accounting software like QuickBooks, Netsuite, Gusto, Rippling, Taxbit, Avalara, Brex, Ramp and Deel. Technology makes us more efficient, saving our clients money and letting us offer higher value services like FP&A modeling, 409A valuation, and treasury advice. Startups deserve to work with CPAs using modern software.

Trusted by Top Venture Investors

Trusted by Top Venture Investors

Top angel investors and VCs refer Kruze because they trust us to give the right advice. Our clients are portfolio companies of top technology and Silicon Valley investors, including Y-Combinator, Kleiner, Sequoia, Khsola, Launch, Techstars and more. With us, your books and taxes are in order when it’s time to raise another round of venture financing.

What types of startups does Kruze Consulting usually work with?

What types of startups does Kruze Consulting usually work with?

Kruze Consulting works with funded Delaware C-Corps. Our clients have secured Pre-Seed to Series C or Series D funding. We look to partner with our clients, going beyond the typical outsourced accounting relationship and seeking to provide a higher level advisory role. We feel honored to be a part of making the world a better place, even if it’s one debit and credit at a time.

Accounting, Finance, Taxes, & Payroll all in one solution

Accounting, Finance, Taxes, & Payroll all in one solution

Startup CFO services, startup accounting and bookkeeping services, startup annual taxes, expense reports, payroll, state sales taxes: we've got you covered. Our software provides custom tailored dashboards that can be provided weekly or monthly, depending on your preference and plan. Founders are often so busy building their company that they don’t have time to take care of their finances. Traditionally, these companies have had to work with a basket of people to get their work done, including bookkeepers, accountants, AP clerks, CFOs, consultants, and tax accountants. At Kruze Consulting, our founders have one point person, saving time and money.

Client testimonials

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We're huge fans of Vanessa and the folks at Kruze Consulting. They set up our books, finances, and other operations, and are constantly organized and on top of things. As a startup, you have to focus on your product and customers, and Kruze takes care of everything else (which is a massive sigh of relief). I highly highly highly recommend working with Vanessa and her team.

Vivek Sodera

Vivek Sodera

Co-Founder @ Superhuman

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Prior to Kruze, as a remote-first team, we were weighed down by a lot of the bureaucracy involved with having a distributed workforce. Kruze has supported us above and beyond basic accounting needs by ensuring we have everything we need to expand and support our team wherever they may be located

Zack Fisch

Zack Fisch

Pequity's Head of Operations & Legal

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Avochato has been growing rapidly in the past year – in fact, too quickly for us to keep up with books, taxes, and budgeting for growth. Partnering with Kruze Consulting has been fantastic to manage, track, and analyze our finances while we continue focusing on building our customer base. Kruze’s team knows what startups need.

Alex De Simone

Alex De Simone

CEO @ Avochato

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Everybody, go to Kruze Consulting. They do a great job. I personally can tell you, they've done a great job for our companies, including Calm.com. I'm sure they’ll do a great job for you.

Jason Calacanis

Jason Calacanis

Angel investor

READY TO CONNECT FOR A FREE CONSULTATION?

We are the experts at helping seed/VC-backed Delaware C-Corps with their accounting and finances!

Talk to an experienced accountant, not a generic sales person

Alex Janeck Kruze Consulting
Alex Janeck
Edith Silva Kruze Consulting
Edith Silva
Randy Hall Kruze Consulting
Randy Hall
Viz AI

$250M+ VC Funding Raised


"I had a great experience working with Kruze Consulting when we raised Series A. They know what VCs need to see, and how to present a startup’s books and finances. If you are going to raise venture capital, you need experts like Kruze."
Chris Mansi

Chris Mansi

CEO

Startup Venture Capital Assistance

With former venture capitalists on staff, our team is here to help you navigate the fundraising process and manage your board of directors

Scott Orn Kruze Consulting
Scott Orn
COO | Former VC
Healy Jones Kruze Consulting
Healy Jones
VP FP&A | Former VC
Pequity

Scale Remote Operations & Team


"Kruze has supported us above and beyond basic accounting needs by ensuring we have everything we need to expand and support our team wherever they may be located"
Zack Fisch

Zack Fisch

Head of Operations & Legal

Clients who have worked with Kruze have collectively raised over $15 billion in VC funding.

We set startups up for fundrising success, and know how to work with the top VCs.

Vanessa Kruze, CPA Kruze Consulting
Vanessa Kruze, CPA
Founder & CEO
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Experienced team helping you

Our account management team is staffed by CPAs and accountants who have, on average, 11 years of experience.

Bill Hollowsky, CPA Kruze Consulting
Bill Hollowsky, CPA
VP of Accounting Services
Claudine Vantomme, CPA Kruze Consulting
Claudine Vantomme, CPA
Controller
Morgan Avery Kruze Consulting
Morgan Avery
SUT/R&D Sr. Tax Accountant
Beth Bassler Kruze Consulting
Beth Bassler
Controller, CPA
Protara Therapeutics

Grew from a 2-person startup to a NASDAQ listed public company.


"The Kruze team helped us grow from a 2-person startup to a NASDAQ listed public company in 2 years. We wouldn’t have gotten public without Kruze’s support. Anyone thinking of launching a startup should make Vanessa their first call!"
Jesse Shefferman

Jesse Shefferman

CEO

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