Business Consulting

Top Startup Consulting Firms

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Startup Consulting Firms have a 4.6 avg. rating from 769 verified reviews

These top startup consulting firms provide specialized services to early-stage companies and entrepreneurs seeking guidance in launching, growing and scaling their businesses. They leverage their business consulting knowledge, experience and network of industry contacts to help entrepreneurs achieve their bottom line. Sort them by reviews, team size, hourly rates and budget to find the best fit for your business.

Best Startup Consulting Companies

837 Companies
Rankings updated: November 03, 2024
  • Deloitte

    Collaborating for Lasting Impact in Business Consulting
    Join us at Deloitte, where we believe that our collective influence is the cornerstone of our value. With a rich legacy spanning over 175 years and a global network encompassing 150 countries, we  [... view the full profile of Deloitte]
    New York City, New York
    1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • KPMG

    Together, we achieve more.
    Offering project management, business, and IT services. At KPMG LLP, their purpose is to turn knowledge into value for the benefit of their clients, people, and the capital markets.  [... view the full profile of KPMG]
    New York City, New York
    1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Forvis

    Delivering Unmatched Accounting Services.
    FORVIS, LLP is a leading public accounting firm ranked among the top 10 in the nation. With a forward vision and unwavering commitment to unmatched client experiences, we redefine excellence in the  [... view the full profile of Forvis]
    Richmond, Virginia
    1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Crowe

    Empowering Your Accounting Decisions.
    Crowe LLP is a global accounting firm offering audit, tax, advisory, and consulting services. With deep industry expertise, we empower businesses to make informed decisions for lasting value.  [... view the full profile of Crowe]
    Chicago, Illinois
    1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • RGP

    Dare to Work Differently.
    Deliver on your organizations biggest opportunities by partnering with RGP's global team of experts. They can create transformative change that drives business growth. A different way of working  [... view the full profile of RGP]
    Irvine, California
    1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • LHH

    Amazing talent who want to work for amazing employers work with us first.
    LHH exists to help people, teams, and organizations find and prepare for what comes next. An end-to-end Talent Solutions brand that helps clients and candidates to embrace a new reality: a world of  [... view the full profile of LHH]
    Jacksonville, Florida
    1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Infoblox

    Modern and cloud-first networking and security.
    The power of cloud-first agility. For cloud-first organizations, Infoblox eliminates siloed confusion and manual errors as your network scales, while also protecting users and devices everywhere.  [... view the full profile of Infoblox]
    Santa Clara, California
    1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Bringing bright ideas to the table, to find the right solutions together.
    Oxford Global Resources is an IT training, talent-driven staffing and consulting company with more than 30 offices across North America and Europe. We provide you with the flexibility to scale your  [... view the full profile of Oxford Global Resources]
    Los Angeles, California
    500 - 999 Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • NEORIS

    Get to know our essence and what define us!
    NEORIS is a Digital Accelerator that helps companies step into the future.  [... view the full profile of NEORIS]
    Miami, Florida
    1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Bristlecone

    AI-Powered Application Transformation Services for the Connected Supply Chain.
    Bristlecone is the leading provider of AI-powered application transformation services for the connected supply chain. They empower the customers with speed, visibility, automation and resiliency to  [... view the full profile of Bristlecone]
    San Jose, California
    1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
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  • Devenup SEO

    Top Rated: 5-star Average Reviews
    Special Offer: August 2024 - 20% SEO discount for clients that found us on DesignRush!
    With data-driven SEO strategies and advertising campaigns, we help businesses impact the metrics that matter most, from traffic to revenue. Use the power of search in any platform to boost your sales.  [... view the full profile of Devenup SEO]
    Krakow, Poland
    Under 49 $40/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Addlium

    Top Rated: 5-star Average Reviews
    Implementing Social Selling Approach to Boost B2B Sales
    Addlium is your trusted partner for outsourced sales and lead generation services. We help B2B companies enrich their pipeline and boost sales consistently.  [... view the full profile of Addlium]
    Kyiv, Ukraine
    Under 49 $25/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Marketing Deck

    Top Rated: 5-star Average Reviews
    Website Creation & Digital Marketing Services
    At Marketing Deck we are developing websites meant to catch valuable leads for your business. Our websites have a modern interface and SEO oriented copywrite.  [... view the full profile of Marketing Deck]
    Bucharest, Romania
    Under 49 $50/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • DiscoverMyBusiness

    Top Rated: 5-star Average Reviews
    Digital Marketing Services
    If your business needs help with generating qualified leads and getting real results from your online marketing, our campaigns require specialized market knowledge, and that’s where we can help!  [... view the full profile of DiscoverMyBusiness]
    New York City, New York
    Under 49 $300/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • BetterQA

    Delivering Top Quality. Always.
    We are BetterQA, a "software testing only" company founded in 2018 in Cluj-Napoca, Romania.Our vision is to help companies improve the quality of software being delivered while lowering the  [... view the full profile of BetterQA]
    Cluj-Napoca, Romania
    50 - 99 $25/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Callbox

    We are largest provider of sales lead generation services helping businesses increase their revenue.
    Callbox is a worldwide recognized leader in B2B Lead Generation powered by AI and human expertise, having been one of the top lead generation and appointment setting experts for the past many years.  [... view the full profile of Callbox]
    Los Angeles, California
    500 - 999 Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • MKC Agency

    Scale revenue with content that converts
    MKC Agency: Your partner in accelerating B2B sales for MSPs and Telcos through strategic lead generation and effective content marketing. We align sales and marketing with an ethical approach to fuel  [... view the full profile of MKC Agency]
    Orlando, Florida
    Under 49 $125/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Axisbits GmbH

    Activate market advantages with high-end solutions from business and tech experts.
    Leading software agency for measurable success. Activate market advantages with high-end solutions from business and tech experts.  [... view the full profile of Axisbits GmbH]
    Zürich, Switzerland
    Under 49 $60/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • MAX Digital

    Digital Performance Partner.
    We are performance-driven digital marketing agency committed to fueling your business growth by harnessing the full potential of the digital landscape. Our team, composed of ambitious marketing  [... view the full profile of MAX Digital]
    Sofia, Bulgaria
    Under 49 $40/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • andstudio

    Making design valuable beyond the aesthetics
    Andstudio is a branding studio specializing in strategy, visual identities and communication design. We design with purpose and meaning connecting businesses and audiences for the brands to become  [... view the full profile of Andstudio]
    Sunny Isles Beach, Florida
    Under 49 $120/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Buttercups

    Buttercups Agency leads the way in frontend development services, specializing deeply in React. Our focus is on creating seamless, dynamic user interfaces that excel in modern web standards and  [... view the full profile of Buttercups]
    Kyiv, Ukraine
    Under 49 $35/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Belkins

    Close more deals with ROI-focused lead acquisition
    Belkins is a B2B lead acquisition agency helping businesses generate high-quality leads & close deals. Belkins has been the award-winning agency for 5 years in a row and has 1,000+ loyal customers  [... view the full profile of Belkins]
    Dover, Delaware
    250 - 499 $50/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Kanda Software

    A Reliable Full-Service Software Development, Cloud, DevOps and QA partner
    Leveraging 30 years of excellence designing, developing, deploying and supporting world-class software solutions, Kanda Software has established itself as a trusted Software Development, Cloud  [... view the full profile of Kanda Software]
    Boston, Massachusetts
    500 - 999 $50/hr $50,000 & Up
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • molfar.io

    MVP development. Faster than anywhere else
    Reasonable MVP for startups.  [... view the full profile of Molfar.io]
    Larnaca, Cyprus
    Under 49 $50/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Attract Group

    Your Trusted IT Partner
    "Attract Group is a full-service software development company specializing in custom CRM and ERP systems, web/mobile design and development, and custom e-commerce solutions (when common CMSs aren't  [... view the full profile of Attract Group]
    Amsterdam, Netherlands
    Under 49 $35/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • DesignRush Design Award Winner
    Branding The World. One Client at a Time.
    Founded in 2018, Justin Jenkins Designs in New York City has always been committed to assisting businesses and individuals in shaping their brand strategy and identity.  [... view the full profile of Justin Jenkins Designs]
    New York City, New York
    Under 49 $50/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Naked Development

    We are a Creative Development Agency & Consultancy.
    First we listen and strip down your idea to reveal the core of your business objectives.This means designing a strategy that will best support the users total experience, end-to-end.Then our  [... view the full profile of Naked Development]
    Irvine, California
    Under 49 Inquire $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • LME Services

    Your Family-Owner I.T. & Cybersecurity Solution
    Since '94, Leon and Joe Engelking have provided Top-Rated IT and Cybersecurity Services.LME Services only employs techs with 10+ years of experience to guarantee that you get a knowledgeable tech  [... view the full profile of LME Services]
    Chicago, Illinois
    Under 49 $180/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Munzai Solutions

    Closing deals, opening doors
     Munzai Solutions is a creative development and digital sales organization that aims to address a market vacuum. We give you a chance to see a significant improvement in your business growth with our  [... view the full profile of Munzai Solutions]
    Manchester, United Kingdom
    Under 49 $20/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Azumo

    Nearshore Software Development for Web, Mobile, Data, AI and Cloud
    Azumo is a leading nearshore software development services provider. We provide software engineers on demand for web, mobile, data, and cloud. Our engineers work from Latin America for our customers  [... view the full profile of Azumo]
    San Francisco, California
    100 - 249 $45/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Daniel James

    Your Vision. Your Business. Proven Results.
    Daniel James Consulting is a Business Management & Marketing Firm designed for flexibility to respond to new demands and opportunities; welcome to Industry 4.0.We cover a wide scope of business  [... view the full profile of Daniel James]
    Montrose, New York
    Under 49 $125/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Helping Orange County Businesses Scale the Right Way.
    Tusk Creative Studios is a digital firm based in Newport Beach, California that focuses on expanding local businesses' internet presence in order to help those businesses realize their full online  [... view the full profile of Tusk Creative Studios]
    Newport Beach, California
    Under 49 $150/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • SalesNash

    Simplified Prospecting for Sales Professionals
    SalesNash is the ultimate sales partner, making it easy to approach potential clients and set up meetings confidently. Our Leads-as-a-Service platform empowers you with everything needed for  [... view the full profile of SalesNash]
    Ottawa, Canada
    Under 49 $49/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • LeadBuds

    Transforming Sales Growth Through Science
    LeadBuds is a specialized B2B lead generation company that leverages over a decadmpowerment. Built on trust and reliability, LeadBuds delivers consistent value through tailored LinkedIn and email  [... view the full profile of LeadBuds]
    Kyiv, Ukraine
    Under 49 $25/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • MindSea

    START HERE to Create Your Winning Health App
    We work with experienced entrepreneurs and business owners like you, taking your first steps into mobile app development. Healthcare | Medical | Wellness | Fitness  [... view the full profile of MindSea]
    Halifax, Canada
    Under 49 Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • X2 Mobile

    DesignRush Design Award Winner
    Your Partner in Bridging the Gap Between Ideas & Digital Products
    We actively identify tech & product opportunities to transform your ideas into engaging and accessible digital experiences.We've already built a number of apps for our US & EU clients that are  [... view the full profile of X2 Mobile]
    Cluj-Napoca, Romania
    Under 49 $60/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Highland

    Understand your customers. Design & build better technology.
    We're a digital experience agency with a fierce commitment to keeping people at the center of our work.  [... view the full profile of Highland]
    Chicago, Illinois
    Under 49 $200/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Parallel Staff

    Top IT Staff Augmentation Services Company
    Parallel Staff simplifies nearshore outsourcing, bringing businesses and IT talent together. Our flexible nearshore staff augmentation enables you to find the right professionals at the right time  [... view the full profile of Parallel Staff]
    Richardson, Texas
    250 - 499 $60/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • SEO Seagull

    Invest In SEO Today - Save Money On Ads Tomorrow.
    At SEO Seagull, our team comprises of seasoned talented professionals who have crafted SEO strategy for leading e-commerce, media and content companies in the US, including Medium, Macy's, ModCloth  [... view the full profile of SEO Seagull]
    McLean, Virginia
    Under 49 $75/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Partnership that works for you
    At Software Development Hub, we specialize in enterprise software development, offering expert web & mobile app solutions since 2014. Our agile approach spans various domains and technologies. Connect  [... view the full profile of Software Development Hub]
    Hamburg, Germany
    100 - 249 $38/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Unico Connect

    Lets Connect & Collaborate
    At Unico Connect, we redefine software development by blending the power & speed of NoCode tools with our expertise in traditional technologies. As a forward-thinking development agency, we specialize  [... view the full profile of Unico Connect]
    Mumbai, India
    50 - 99 Inquire $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Admios

    Nearshore Software Development Services
    Need devs but in a hiring freeze? Continue to build and increase productivity with our nearshore software development resources. We provides highly skilled, team-based resources to companies that need  [... view the full profile of Admios]
    San Francisco, California
    50 - 99 $60/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Innovative Ideas, Creative Solutions.
    CTD is a web development company that specializes in digital marketing We offer website design, SEO services, social media management, and more  [... view the full profile of Creative Think Digital]
    London, United Kingdom
    50 - 99 $100/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Wallman Design

    Advertising Branding Website.
    Wallman Design is a comprehensive design agency, placing a primary emphasis on website design as part of our full suite of services. Our commitment lies in delivering professional design solutions  [... view the full profile of Wallman Design]
    Pinehurst, North Carolina
    Under 49 $75/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • TH-EY

    Custom Software Development, Design & Consulting
    For startups, we produce specialized software, and our aim is to use technology to help our clients succeed.  [... view the full profile of TH-EY]
    London, United Kingdom
    Under 49 $49/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • LeadValets

    We Open Doors For You
    Marketing can be overwhelming, but were here to help.Fill'er Up! Get a full tank of customers coming through your door.  [... view the full profile of LeadValets]
    Saint Louis, Missouri
    Under 49 $460/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • TIMIT SOLUTIONS

    Our expertise are GenAI, Custom Software, Nearshore Staffing and Data Analytics & AI
    TIMIT provides you experts in GenAI, AI-driven Data Analytics, Custom Software Development, IT Startegy, and has top-notch, lower-cost IT Talent.Our customers tell us we're fun to work with, and  [... view the full profile of TIMIT SOLUTIONS]
    Albany, New York
    Under 49 $50/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Gurzu

    Software development, surpassing your expectations!
    One stop shop for modern software development.  [... view the full profile of Gurzu]
    Boston, Massachusetts
    50 - 99 $35/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Haute in Texas

    Join us in pursuit of the haute life.
    You want high-end PR & Marketing strategies, constructed by hand for your brand from start to finish. We are an award-winning team who believes in Integrity, Community, Passion, and Compassion. With  [... view the full profile of Haute In Texas]
    San Antonio, Texas
    Under 49 $120/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Crypto Legal LTD

    Navigating the Blockchain Legal Frontier
    Crypto Legal is an award-winning firm headquartered in the UK, specializing in cutting-edge blockchain forensics and legal services related to cryptocurrencies. With a focus on claims, disputes, AML  [... view the full profile of Crypto Legal LTD]
    London, United Kingdom
    Under 49 $200/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
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Startup Consulting Firm Hiring Guide

What is a startup consulting firm?

A startup consulting firm is a specialized service provider with expertise in assisting new and emerging businesses, known as startups, through the complexities of launching and growing a company. Startups are innovative enterprises that are typically in the early stages of their development. These companies often aim to fill a niche or solve a specific problem in the market, employing innovative and scalable methods.

Every startup is a distinct entity with its own set of objectives, hurdles, and operational dynamics. Traditional business strategies often prove inadequate, necessitating a bespoke approach tailor-made to the specific nuances of each startup. This is where startup consultant firms come in as they possess profound knowledge and expertise across diverse sectors, such as marketing, branding, financing and fundraising, outsourced HR, or legal help.

As novel entities, startups come across various operational challenges for which they turn to startup consulting firms:

  • Limited knowledge in establishing a viable business model and revenue strategy
  • Navigating regulatory compliance and legal issues
  • Facing uncertainty in validating market fit and scaling operations
  • Attracting and managing top talent
  • Lack of experience in establishing effective marketing and sales strategies
  • Difficulties in securing funding and managing cash flow
  • Constantly battling the need to pivot strategies and adapt to market changes

While many startups fail within their first two years, research shows that the number of new startups continues to grow. Notably, the United States, home to many of the world's most successful startups, has launched nearly 974,000 new businesses between the first and third quarters of 2023. With over 80,000 registered startups, the country remains the leading startup hub.

Success story

The following case study highlights how Bain & Company transformed GameCo’s operational model, enhancing its scalability and revenue potential through a comprehensive reorganization.

  • Challenge: Video game company GameCo aspired to scale from a one-hit wonder to a multi-product entertainment company. However, its existing organizational structure and operating model were not designed for growth, impeding its expansion ambitions.
  • Solution: Bain & Company collaborated with GameCo to redefine its vision and create a new operating model, restructuring the company into five operating groups focused on products, publishing, and enterprise. The agency used an organization navigation tool to assess and prioritize changes, enhance collaboration, and streamline product delivery. Some of the roles and responsibilities were also redefined across the new structure.
  • Results: The reorganization led to a more than 50% increase in B2B commercial revenue in the first year. GameCo successfully launched multiple new products, delivered major cross-enterprise experiences, and improved global scalability while maintaining strong player engagement.

What do startup consulting companies do?

Startup consulting companies offer a range of specialized services designed to support and guide new businesses through their early stages and beyond. Their primary goal is to provide expert advice, strategic planning, and practical solutions to help startups navigate challenges, optimize operations, and achieve growth.

Here are some key services provided by startup consulting firms:

  • Organizational (re)structuring
    Crafting tailored organizational frameworks to optimize team efficiency, clarify roles, and enhance decision-making processes to support scalable growth
  • Business model development
    Designing and validating innovative business models that align with market demands, ensuring sustainable revenue streams and competitive differentiation
  • Liability assessment and mitigation
    Identifying potential legal and operational risks and providing actionable solutions to safeguard the startup's assets and reputation
  • Funding and networking
    Guiding startups through the funding landscape, helping them craft compelling pitches, and securing capital through investor connections and financial planning
  • Business branding
    Developing a strong brand identity, including logo design, messaging, and positioning, to establish a distinct market presence and attract the target audience
  • Business roadmap
    Developing a strategic roadmap that outlines key milestones, goals, and action plans to guide the startup's growth and ensure long-term success
  • Product development
    Supporting product design, development, and market entry strategies to ensure that products meet customer needs and stand out in the market
  • Leadership coaching and mentoring
    Providing personalized guidance and support to startup founders, helping them develop leadership skills and make informed decisions
  • Recruitment
    Assisting with recruitment strategies to attract and retain top talent

Success story

To further understand the transformative effects of startup consulting services, we explore this case study by Orchid Black.

  • Challenge: A fintech startup reached out to Orchid Black for assistance in overcoming its growth stagnation. Despite having 30,000 customers, the client’s existing organizational structure, strategy, and growth trajectory were underperforming, posing a threat to its valuation and exit ambitions.
  • Solution: Orchid Black performed a Value Creation Assessment (VCA), identifying two growth opportunities; one pertaining to its pricing strategy and the second to its customer segmentation. To capitalize on these opportunities, the company introduced a new revenue model tailored to the needs of the newly identified user personas — wealth management professionals and other B2B-focused prospects. As a last step, Orchid Black has readied the client’s financials, preparing them for a successful exit.
  • Results: The client increased return on investment (ROI) by 4,000%. Another notable achievement was the raised valuation from $23 million to $36 million, prompting the company’s founder to continue working with Orchid Black on new projects.

What is the difference between a startup advisor and a startup consultant?

The main difference between a startup advisor and a consultant is that advisors create long-term strategies while consultants are for short-term tasks and projects.

A startup advisor provides long-term guidance on strategy and high-level challenges, often fostering an ongoing relationship with the company. A startup consultant, on the other hand, is engaged for specific, short-term projects or issues. They offer specialized expertise to solve immediate problems and typically conclude their role once the task is complete.

Here’s are some of the key distinctions between them:

Startup advisorStartup consultant
  • Works closely with company teams, possibly in leadership positions
  • Can work independently or with consulting firms
  • Brief and frequent interactions, focusing on problem-solving
  • Advisement for strategic, long-term planning ambitions 
  • Provides concrete solutions to immediate concerns
  • Typically fosters an ongoing, possibly informal relationship
  • Acts as a mentor, industry expert, or peer
  • Maintains a formal, short-term professional relationship
  • Role typically ends after the project is completed

How much do startup consulting companies charge for their services?

Startup consulting companies’ service charges might vary depending on their industry, niche skills, pricing model, type of consultation required, and agency location.

Common pricing models used by consulting companies include:

  • Hourly fees: Charges based on the time spent working
  • Project-based fees: Entail fixed price for completing a specific project
  • Value-based fees: Fees tied to the perceived value delivered
  • Consulting retainers: Set recurring fee for ongoing services
  • Pay-for-performance: Compensation linked to achieving specific results
  • Consulting for equity: Ownership stakes in a client’s company instead of fees

The top 50 startup consulting firms on DesignRush typically charge an average of $89 per hour. 17% of the companies accept projects with a budget under $1,000, catering to small-scale projects. In contrast, 1.3% of the firms require a $50,000 minimum budget, providing extensive consulting services for more substantial projects, including strategic planning and scaling initiatives.

Why should I hire a startup consulting company?

You should hire a startup consulting company because it can accelerate your business growth, streamline operations, and refine your market strategy. These firms grant access to networking connections, business skills, expertise, and even potential investors, enabling startup founders to get a better head start and minimal mistakes as they develop their company.

Hire startup consulting companies because they: 

  • Help navigate operational risks and avoid pitfalls
  • Assist with legal business formation, ensuring compliance and proper structuring
  • Conduct market research to identify expansion opportunities
  • Are adept at securing funding and communicating with investors and banks
  • Provide financial modeling and budgeting to optimize resource allocation
  • Can offer valuable perspectives for businesses seeking to explore new market verticals and gain market share
  • Assist in defining responsibilities, hiring top talent, and onboarding new team members
  • Help during operational transitions like mergers and policy shifts
  • Offer coaching and mentoring to strengthen leadership and team dynamics
  • Refine business roadmaps to adapt to changing ambitions

Success story

To illustrate the impact of startup consulting services, we've selected the following case study which showcases Eagle Hill Consulting’s contribution in helping KCI devise and execute a market entry strategy.

  • Challenge: Engineering firm KCI sought to expand into the booming fiber optic network design and installation market but needed to evaluate the viability, market opportunities, and competitive landscape.
  • Solution: Eagle Hill Consulting developed a comprehensive market entry strategy in eight weeks. To determine the expansion feasibility, the agency conducted market research, competitive analysis, and opportunity identification. The approach involved in-depth interviews with KCI personnel and a detailed assessment of market conditions.
  • Results: The strategic plan guided KCI’s successful expansion into the new market, helping the firm capitalize on growth opportunities and positioning it as an emerging key player in the fiber optic network sector.

When should I get a startup consultant?

The timing of bringing a startup consultant on board plays a pivotal role in determining your company’s success and avoiding stagnation. Here are some key stages when a startup consultant can be of great impact:

  1. Idea stage
    If you're unsure about the viability of your business idea, a consultant can provide feedback and guide you in refining it.
  2. Seeking investment stage
    If you're looking to raise capital, a consultant with the right connections can introduce you to potential investors and help you prepare your pitch.
  3. Major growth stage
    If your startup is scaling rapidly, a consultant can guide you on managing growth, hiring, and market expansion.
  4. Facing challenges stage
    If you're encountering specific hurdles, be it in product development, marketing, or operations, a consultant with expertise in that area can provide valuable insights.
  5. Major decision stage
    If you're contemplating significant strategic decisions, like entering a new market or expanding your business model, a consultant can offer an outside perspective and ensure you're on the right path. 

How do I choose the best startup consulting firm for my business?

Choosing the best startup consulting firm for your business involves careful evaluation to ensure alignment with your company's specific needs, budget, and objectives. To make an informed decision, consider some of the following steps:

  1. Define your needs
    Before searching, clearly define what you expect from a consulting firm. Are you looking for market research, business strategy, fundraising assistance, or all of the above?
  2. Set a budget
    Establish a realistic budget that reflects your objectives, considering the scope and duration of the consulting service. Balance affordability with the complexity and depth of services required.
  3. Research and gather references
    Start by exploring credible sources, such as marketplaces and agency directories like DesignRush. Look for reputable startup consulting firms in industry publications.
  4. Seek recommendations
    Ask your network, other founders, or industry peers for recommendations. Personal endorsements can be invaluable.
  5. Evaluate their portfolio
    Review the firm's previous work and success stories. Client testimonials and case studies can provide valuable insights into their effectiveness and style.
  6. Look into their specializations
    Ensure the firm has a strong track record in startup consulting and a deep understanding of your industry. Look for experience in areas such as business strategy, financial modeling, and market research.
  7. Assess their reputation
    Investigate the firm's history and reputation in the industry. Awards, recognition, and client feedback can help gauge their standing and reliability.
  8. Inquire about their network
    Consider the consulting firm’s networking capabilities and whether they can introduce you to potential partners, investors, or other essential stakeholders.
  9. Assess the cultural fit
    The firm's consultants will work closely with your team. It's crucial to have aligned values, communication styles, and work ethics.
  10. Understand the pricing
    Examine their fee structure, whether it's a fixed fee, hourly rate, monthly retainer, or equity-based.
  11. Send a request for proposal (RFP)
    Ask for a detailed proposal that outlines the scope of work, timelines, deliverables, and pricing structure. Compare proposals from multiple firms to find the best value for your investment.
  12. Discuss ROI expectations
    Engage in discussions about potential return on investment with each firm. Ensure their proposed services, expertise, and past successes align with your expectations and goals.
  13. Make your decision
    Choose the firm that best aligns with your startup’s needs, budget, and values. The right partner should understand your business's nuances and be committed to supporting your growth and success.

You can also visit our Marketplace to get connected with vetted startup consultant firms. Share your project details, and we’ll connect you with five qualified firms that meet your requirements.

How do I find the best startup consulting company on DesignRush that fits my budget?

To find the best startup consulting company on DesignRush that fits your budget, utilize our agency filters to narrow down your options. Tailor your search by choosing from agencies that can cater to projects from $1,000 to above $50,000 based on your budget.

To help you get started, here are a few options across different price ranges:

Low Budget: 1k above
Mid Budget: 10k above
High Budget: 50k above

What questions should I ask startup consulting companies before hiring one?

When evaluating startup consulting companies, asking the right questions can ensure you choose a partner that aligns with your goals and needs. Here are key questions to consider:

Its Relevant Background

  1. How long has your firm been offering startup consulting services?
  2. Can you share references or case studies of startups you've previously assisted?
  3. Do you have startup clients in my specific industry or at least those who faced similar challenges?

Its Services and Processes

  1. What's your firm's approach to startup consulting?
  2. What are the common pitfalls that startups fall into and how do you address those?
  3. What are some security measures you implement?
  4. How do you define and measure success in your consulting engagements?
  5. What are your pricing models?
  6. Are there any special packages or discounts available for early-stage companies or long-term partnerships?
  7. Do you offer any support after the contract ends or follow-up services?
  8. How would you manage an overwhelmed founder?
  9. How do you handle conflicts of interest while working on a project?
  10. What are the steps you take to ensure confidentiality?

Related to Your Project

  1. How do you know if our startup idea is good?
  2. How long do you think our startup will take to become profitable?
  3. Based on your experience, how many rounds of funding do you think our startups will need?
  4. How frequently will we have meetings or progress check-ins?
  5. What happens if we terminate the contract?
  6. How flexible are you in adapting to changes or pivots during our engagement?

What are the top startup consulting firms in the U.S.?

The top startup consulting firms in the U.S. are:

  • KPMG
    • 4.5 stars on Google (57 reviews)
    • Top clients: Uber, The Wendy’s Company, Myriad Genetics, HP, Inc.
  • Callbox
    • 4.8 stars on DesignRush (6 reviews)
    • 4.5 stars on Google (87 reviews)
    • Top clients: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Workday
  • MKC Agency
    • 4.9 stars on DesignRush (20 reviews)
    • 5.0 stars on Google (11 reviews)
    • Top clients: Ericsson, Telecom One, Coven Cloud, Highwinds
  • Belkins
    • 4.9 stars on DesignRush (15 reviews)
    • 4.2 stars on Google (6 reviews)
    • Top clients: MONA Payment, CitrusAd, GoHealth, Born & Bred
  • Eagle Hill Consulting
    • 4.3 stars on Google (7 reviews)
    • Top clients: Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Government Accountability Office (GAO), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Corporation for Public Broadcasting
About The Author and Expert Reviewer
Zarah Ariola specializes in research and business. Working at IBM and serving at the UN Migration Agency provided her with first-hand information on business processes, HR, and finance subjects. She now uses these insights to produce valuable and actionable B2B content for DesignRush.
Director of Client Relationships
Andrija Savić is an accomplished and highly competent sales professional with record-breaking achievements. His work at BSC Kragujevac, a leading European NGO affiliated with SPARK Netherlands, resulted in a 24% increase in course completion rates. While at Global Media Box, his team contributed 26.5% of the company's monthly sales in just seven months. Since becoming the Director of Client Relationships at DesignRush, the business has gained a 700% revenue increase, a testament to his proven competency and dedication to customer satisfaction.