solve for (x), llc

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Chief Operating Officer of Tradery Labs

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We develop technology powered by AI to trade assets and generate profits for clients.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire solve for (x), llc to accomplish?

• Conduct a Comprehensive Audit of the Company's Legal and Accounting Framework
• Fulfill the Role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with All Associated Responsibilities
• Guide the Company in Strategic Planning and Securing Investment

SOLUTION

How did you find solve for (x), llc?

Online Search

Why did you select solve for (x), llc over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from solve for (x), llc were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Undertake a comprehensive evaluation and analysis of the company's entire legal and accounting infrastructure. This process involves a thorough examination and verification of all legal documents, compliance measures, financial records, accounting practices, and internal control systems. 

The objective is to ensure compliance with regulations, financial accuracy, and operational efficiency while identifying improvement areas. Assume complete responsibility as the company's CFO, overseeing all financial operations. This includes managing the finance team, budgeting, financial planning, cash flow management, and financial reporting. 

As CFO, you will provide strategic financial input to the CEO and board members, ensure the company's financial practices comply with regulatory requirements, and work towards optimizing the organization's financial health and stability. Play an essential role in shaping the company's strategic direction and growth plans. This involves analyzing market trends, identifying opportunities for expansion, and advising on business model adjustments. 

Additionally, lead the effort in attracting and securing funding from investors. This entails preparing compelling investment pitches, negotiating terms with potential investors, and managing investor relations to support the company's long-term financial objectives.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

In the Legal and Accounting Audit scope, a full audit was completed within six months. During this process, 90% of compliance issues or discrepancies in legal and accounting practices were identified and resolved. This thorough audit led to the implementation of 15-20 new or improved internal control measures derived from the findings. 

Furthermore, the audit achieved a significant level of compliance, reaching 90% adherence to relevant industry regulations and standards. As Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the CFO notably reduced operational costs by 10% within one year through efficient financial management. 

Additionally, the CFO ensured the successful and timely completion of quarterly financial reporting, maintaining high accuracy and adhering to all deadlines. In the realm of Strategic Planning and Securing Investment, over five years, investment funds were successfully raised, surpassing the targeted amount of $2.4 million. Moreover, they executed three critical strategic growth opportunities or partnerships within a single year.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Solve for X's project management skills were notably efficient and effective. He consistently delivered on time, meeting all project deadlines with precision, which is evident in the completion of the comprehensive audit within six months and the timely execution of quarterly financial reports. 

Stuart's responsiveness to the company's needs was exceptional, especially in managing operational costs and securing significant investment, aligning perfectly with our long-term strategic goals. On a personal note, Stuart was delightful to work with. His intelligence was apparent in every aspect of his work, and his approachable demeanor made collaboration smooth and productive. 

His clear and effective communication ensured everyone was well-informed, fostering a transparent and cooperative atmosphere. Stuart's blend of professionalism, intellect, and pleasant personality significantly contributed to the success of our projects.

What was your primary form of communication with solve for (x), llc?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Solve for X has a unique and impressive philosophy noticeable in all aspects of its operations. Their approach involved improving existing strategies or processes to attain a new level of excellence. The company excelled in enhancing and refining its existing processes, resulting in a better outcome for the company.

Are there any areas for improvement or something solve for (x), llc could have done differently?

The company's reluctance to adhere to the established protocols for using our product management software posed challenges in efficiently tracking project progress. Without the use of this centralized digital tool, obtaining updates on the projects often required direct and sometimes time-consuming inquiries.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CEO of JogAlong Stroller LLC

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

JogAlong Stroller developed an ergonomic stroller with elliptical-like arms enabling proper running and walking form.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire solve for (x), llc to accomplish?

• Prepare a pitch deck, business plan and executive summary
• Develop an extremely robust financial model that is easy to use by a non finance person
• Provide fractional CFO service relating to start-up strategy and fund-raising

SOLUTION

How did you find solve for (x), llc?

Other

Why did you select solve for (x), llc over others?

High ratings

What was the size of solve for (x), llc’s team?

Stuart is the lead, but does not hesitate to pull in others when appropriate.

What was your primary form of communication with solve for (x), llc?

Virtual Meeting, Email or Messaging App

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Solve for x developed a financial model, business plan, pitch deck, and executive summary. The financial model Stuart built is outstanding. It is easy for a non-finance person to use, and when I did have questions about why things were the way they were (stemming from my lack of financial experience) he walked me through step by step until I understood.

The model is very thorough. We have received many compliments on the financial model from investors examining our assumptions and inputs. The business plan Stuart created for us has been a vault of gold we have visited again and again.

We have used many paragraphs and phrases from the business plan for other documents and applications. With the information from the financial model and business plan Stuart created an excellent pitch deck and executive summary. They flow well, look great and are backed up with solid data.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• Our confidence in the deliverables Solve for x provided enabled us to apply for grants.
• We were also well prepared to apply and run an equity crowdfunding campaign.
• The deliverables were also important resources when applying for financing.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Solve for x managed our projects expertly. Dates given for tasks were reasonable and met. Often times when we asked for something, they were able to improve our ask. It was reassuring to see and benefit from the variety and number of startup and business projects they have already completed. And along the way, all aspects of the project were transparent, and all questions were thoroughly answered.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

All of the work is high quality. When something is delivered, you know it will be top-notch. Stuart is very efficient with his time and kept us up to date. I always had full confidence we were with the right person. And the MOST impressive thing is to share a screen with Stuart when he is working on your financial model in Excel. I just stop talking and watch, it's like a business Twitch session!

Are there any areas for improvement or something solve for (x), llc could have done differently?

All the work is great, the process and pricing are transparent. I continue to contract Solve for x on a fractional basis to keep us at the level we want to be.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the VP of Sales and Marketing of Preferred Packaging

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We are manufacturer of equipment, flexible films and containers for the retail and food service markets.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire solve for (x), llc to accomplish?

Gain a deeper understanding of nutrition/food packaging in K-12 schools

SOLUTION

How did you find solve for (x), llc?

Other

Why did you select solve for (x), llc over others?

High ratings, Pricing first our budget, Great culture fit, Referred to me

What was the size of solve for (x), llc’s team?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Gain a deeper understanding of nutrition/food packaging in schools K-12:

• Size the school market to understand scope, trajectory and degree of opportunities
• Define major markets reliant or potentially reliant on food packaging
• Identify how they operate (…so we can sell)
• Understand usage and attitudes regarding bulk versus pre-packaged
• Identify operational structures and procurement processes (user vs buyer & influencer roles)
• Gauge material sentiment beyond paper vs. plastic (environmentally friendly – what is real attachment)

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Size the school major markets reliant or potentially reliant on food packaging

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Very professional, thorough and responsive. All deliverables on time and as specified.

What was your primary form of communication with solve for (x), llc?

Virtual Meeting, Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They have passion for their projects, and it shows in their final product. They immerse themselves into their research to have a true understanding of defined expectations from the customer's perspective.

Are there any areas for improvement or something solve for (x), llc could have done differently?

none

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CEO/Founder of YoYo.Health Inc

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Patent yoga and fitness accessories

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire solve for (x), llc to accomplish?

• Fix all financials
• Fix contracts and agreements
• Relaunch the brand

SOLUTION

How did you find solve for (x), llc?

Online Search

Why did you select solve for (x), llc over others?

The right fit

How many teammates from solve for (x), llc were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Inital business consulting in the relaunch and rebuilding of my business. Ongoing CFO duties:

• Contracts
• Agreements
• Accounting
• Business consulting 
• CFO 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

New signed agreements for internal team. Financial projections. 

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Yes. Their communication was on point; they were always reachable and willing to help. 

What was your primary form of communication with solve for (x), llc?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Stuarts vast knowlege of many different areas of start up businesses and navigating the twists and turns. 

Are there any areas for improvement or something solve for (x), llc could have done differently?

No

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Co-Founder of Hub Space Flex

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We are a real estate-focused operator of small bay and industrial warehouse properties. We reconfigure warehouses in a way that allows businesses to thrive by giving them solutions that fit their business size. The result is the perfect warehouse space for small and medium-sized companies to operate, scale, and be part of a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire solve for (x), llc to accomplish?

• Establish market and Complete competitive analysis
• Identify target customer persona
• Develop a custom-built financial model for the business

SOLUTION

How did you find solve for (x), llc?

Referral

Why did you select solve for (x), llc over others?

• High ratings
• Close to my geographic location
• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from solve for (x), llc were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Discovery, Creating a one-page business plan, market research, financial model development and refinement. Ad-hoc consulting and strategy.  Ultimately, we spent a lot of time discussing more CFO level decision making and building a fully custom and robust financial business model. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Stuart did a great job with our project and I'm confident he will do the same with any opportunity that he is involved with. I have not met many excel experts who can also work well with a team to develop a custom financial model. It has brought a great amount of clarity to our project. Stuart can do both and he is also an expert in market analysis and marketing studies as well. We received exactly what we needed to take the next steps in our business.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Stuart worked very diligently and completed all work on time and sometimes ahead of our schedule. They were quick to respond and detailed in the content of their responses. 

What was your primary form of communication with solve for (x), llc?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Stuart took the time to make sure he "got it" and really understood our problem, the outcomes we wanted and what it would take to get there. This meant he had to learn new things outside of his experience but I was very impressed with his ability to take on this challenge and do a great job with it. 

Are there any areas for improvement or something solve for (x), llc could have done differently?

Nothing I can offer. We are very pleased. 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Founder & CEO, solve for (x), llc of Whatifwe World

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We help local consumer-facing business gain awareness and drive sales growth by putting their most important messages at the fingertips of their customers through our WithYou mobile platform.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire solve for (x), llc to accomplish?

• Build a comprehensive financial model in preparation for fundraising

SOLUTION

How did you find solve for (x), llc?

Referral

Why did you select solve for (x), llc over others?

• High ratings
• Close to my geographic location
• Good value for cost
• Referred to me

How many teammates from solve for (x), llc were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Stuart created a comprehensive financial model for our startup and helped us to learn how to use the model and make modifications as needed.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

A clear and concise financial model was created that we can understand and use to help with fundraising moving forward.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Meetings were on time and productive. Deliverables were clearly communicated and all deadlines were met.

What was your primary form of communication with solve for (x), llc?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Stuart from Solve for X crafted an exceptional financial model for our WithYou mobile platform. His attentive listening, thorough explanations, and seamless adaptation to our evolving needs were sincerely appreciated. 

Stuart's communication skills were top-notch, fostering a collaborative and productive atmosphere. His remarkable attention to detail ensured precision in every aspect of the project. Working with them was a pleasure, and their expertise significantly contributed to the success of our venture. Highly recommend his services!

Are there any areas for improvement or something solve for (x), llc could have done differently?

None at this time.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Founder of With/Ritual

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Online wellness e-commerce company

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire solve for (x), llc to accomplish?

• Refining business model/goals
• Researching and organizing pitch deck

SOLUTION

How did you find solve for (x), llc?

Online Search

Why did you select solve for (x), llc over others?

• High ratings
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from solve for (x), llc were assigned to this project?

1 Employee

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Developing and honing in on key points of business concept and pitch deck. Developing main points of business concept focusing on problem, solution and market differentiation.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• The measurable outcomes from the collaboration was a formed business concept, and built out key points of pitch d

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

It was a such a pleasure working with Stuart from Solve for X on developing my business concept. He had excellent project management and delivered all items on time. He was very flexible on focusing on the needs on my project and going in different directions as needed as the concept developed.

What was your primary form of communication with solve for (x), llc?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

I really enjoyed collaborating with solve for (x), llc because they took a very individualized approach to my project. As opposed to checking the boxes of what was needed to develop my pitch deck he focused on working with me to give me to tools to refine my own business concept. In this way the process was very empowering and exemplified the unique process of Solve for X.

Are there any areas for improvement or something solve for (x), llc could have done differently?

I really had a positive experience working with Solve for (X) and felt that Stuart was really thorough in the information he provided as we were building out the deck. I really enjoyed his individualized approach to building out the deck and feel that there is also an opportunity so share more templates that could assist building out the deck.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the COO of Stanley Brothers USA Holdings

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Consumer packaged goods, product formulation and licensing of the brand.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire solve for (x), llc to accomplish?

• Financial Model
• Scenario Planning
• Strategic Guidance

SOLUTION

How did you find solve for (x), llc?

Online Search

Why did you select solve for (x), llc over others?

High ratings, Great culture fit, Good value for cost, Company values aligned

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Stuart was scoped to help with financial modeling, international modeling and scenario planning, as well as advising on growth objectives for our main business as well as subsidiaries and new business ventures.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

• Model built for achieving investment
• International strategic plan built for new market entrance

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Our deliverables have always been met in advance of the deadline. solve for (x), llc is extremely responsive, oftentimes getting initial work and planning prepared in advance of calls.

What was your primary form of communication with solve for (x), llc?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Logical thought process throughout the work as well as strategic advising. Not just getting a project done and moving on. All deliverables are always well thought out and we look forward to hearing the advice from solve for (x), llc prior to finalizing our projects.

Are there any areas for improvement or something solve for (x), llc could have done differently?

None that we have at this time.