solve for (x), llc

Solve For (X), LLC is a fractional CFO and startup advisory firm that the site describes as Chicago-based. It is led by founder Stuart Bernstein, who serves clients as CFO, strategist or sounding board and has about 30 years of experience across startups, corporates and private equity. It works with clients worldwide.

The firm was founded in 2008 with a focus on analytics for consumer packaged goods and retail, and refocused on startups and small businesses in 2018. Its work ranges from pre-seed fundraising to COO-level operational overhauls. The site presents engagements as four stages, called laps, running from about six weeks to up to 24 months.

• Startups: investor-ready financials, runway and burn management, pitch and board decks, fundraising strategy
• Established businesses: cash flow optimization, faster month-end close, financial controls and systems, growth planning and forecasting
• Investors: due diligence support, portfolio company oversight, risk assessment, operational improvement plans
• Engagement stages: Lap 1 (6 to 8 weeks) on clean reporting, Lap 2 (8 to 12 weeks) on insight tools, Lap 3 (90 to 180 days) on fundraising and growth, Lap 4 (12 to 24 months) on cash flow and efficiency
• CFO Assessment: a free online assessment tool

Testimonials on the site come from Jonathan Tarud, CEO of Koombea, Inc., Michael Horn, Founder and CEO of Pop Culture Products and Licensing, and Kate Smith, President of Sensational Color. Bernstein also teaches and mentors founders at mHUB and 1871 and sits on advisory boards in Chicago's tech ecosystem.

The firm reports serving more than 330 clients across 59 industries and 20 countries, with five-star ratings on Clutch and Google. It also claims an average cash flow increase of 10 to 20 percent and a 33 percent faster month-end close (self-reported).