Our Story
At Startup Partners, we empower startups and emerging growth companies with strategic financial leadership and hands-on support—so founders can focus on what matters most: building great products and growing their business.
We handle the complexities of finance, accounting, and back-office operations, giving you the clarity and capacity to move faster. Our model combines fractional CFO services, accounting, and advisory with scalable support in HR and technology—providing the expertise you need without the overhead of full-time hires.
Startup Partners is led by Managing Director Michael Barry, a seasoned startup advisor with deep roots in the venture ecosystem. Since joining PwC in 1999 and relocating to Silicon Valley in 2015, Michael has worked with high-growth companies at every stage—through roles at Kranz, PwC, Grant Thornton, EisnerAmper, and Keating Consulting. His experience bridges global perspective and local execution, combining strategic insight with startup practicality.
We believe in building lasting partnerships. Whether you're navigating a raise, managing burn, or scaling operations, Startup Partners delivers the financial clarity, structure, and support you need to grow with confidence.
Let’s unlock what’s next—together.
Michael Barry, Managing Director
Your mission is innovation. Our mission is support.
At Startup Partners, we leverage a trusted network of partner firms to deliver comprehensive support for your startup’s non-core needs. By maintaining these strategic relationships, we provide the expertise and capabilities your business requires—without the overhead of in-house resources.
We act as your single point of contact, ensuring seamless coordination so you can focus on your mission.
Discovering the next wonder drug? Your mission
Building the next revolutionary SaaS platform? Your mission
Creating the very best in Artificial Intelligence? Your mission
Keeping it all together? That’s our mission.
We collaborate with and recommend the very best in the industry, including:
HR and Workforce Planning
The Jobson Group specializes in human resources and workforce planning, offering tailored solutions to help companies build, manage, and retain high-performing teams. They focus on aligning HR strategies with business goals for long-term success.
Benefits Planning & Support
AEIS is a leader in benefits planning and management, providing customized solutions for employee benefits programs, including healthcare, administration, and compliance, ensuring businesses attract and retain top talent.
Valuations & 409A Reports
Scalar delivers expertise in valuations and 409A reporting, offering startups accurate and defensible valuation services to meet regulatory requirements, attract investors, and prepare for equity events.
Tax Planning and Compliance
VPTax focuses on tax planning and compliance, helping businesses navigate complex tax landscapes, optimize tax strategies, and ensure compliance to support growth and profitability.