Separate normal startup imperfection from the risks that need attention now.

Cash, committed spend, and runway assumptions are reviewed on a reliable cadence.

Leadership knows which actions are available if revenue or financing timing moves.

Material forecast assumptions have named owners and update dates.

The close is timely enough to influence current operating decisions.

Management reporting explains drivers and decisions, not only account balances.

Leaders can trace key numbers and metrics to trusted source data.

Access, approvals, reconciliations, and evidence are proportionate and consistently used.

The company controls its financial data, credentials, backups, and provider handoffs.

Critical finance work can continue if one person or provider becomes unavailable.

Ownership, board, compliance, and material contract records are current and accessible.

Finance decision rights and escalation paths are clear across leadership and providers.

The finance team has the judgment and capacity required for the next company stage.