Startup Partnerships Advisor Startup CPA Chicago

About Acquisition Network

Acquisition Network builds relationships across founder investor operator and professional communities. We are expanding a network of independent professionals who can recognize when a startup may be preparing to raise capital and connect its leadership with an appropriate next step.

The role

Acquisition Network is hiring a Startup Partnerships Advisor with startup accounting or CPA experience in Chicago. You will develop relationships across the founder and accounting ecosystem identify companies approaching a fundraising decision and coordinate consent-based introductions to our team. Your accounting background should help you understand financing readiness and the operational questions founders face as they prepare to grow.

What you will do

• Build relationships with startup founders accountants finance operators and other professional advisors in Chicago.
• Recognize signals that a company may be preparing for a capital raise or significant growth phase.
• Hold high-level conversations about timing goals and interest in additional support.
• Qualify whether an introduction to Acquisition Network would be relevant.
• Coordinate introductions only after receiving permission from the founder.
• Maintain accurate notes relationship records and follow-up activity.
• Share general feedback about the recurring accounting and readiness questions founders encounter.

What we are looking for

• Experience in startup accounting public accounting outsourced accounting controllership or a related advisory role.
• Familiarity with startup reporting cash flow financial controls financing readiness and founder decision-making.
• Professional relationships within the startup ecosystem in Chicago.
• Clear communication and the ability to discuss business needs without overstepping professional boundaries.
• Strong organization discretion and follow-through.
• Ability to work independently in a remote contractor role.

Engagement details

This is a paid remote independent contractor opportunity centered on partner development and qualified founder introductions. Scope performance expectations and compensation will be set out in the written contractor agreement.

Professional standards

This role does not require you to provide accounting or tax advice for Acquisition Network. You must protect client confidentiality follow applicable professional duties and avoid sharing client information without clear authorization.

How to apply

Submit your resume or LinkedIn profile and a short summary of your startup accounting experience and the founder communities you know. Do not submit client details tax records or private financial information. Acquisition Network provides equal opportunity without regard to protected characteristics.