FocusCFO is a nationally recognized fractional CFO franchise brand launched in 2001. Founded by Brad Martyn in Columbus, Ohio, the firm introduced its fractional CFO system in September 2001, offering seasoned financial executives a path to embedded, part-time CFO roles. The company formalized its franchise model in March 2018 under Focus CFO Group, LLC, headquartered in Westerville, Ohio.

The franchise empowers local "Sherpa Teams"—a combination of fractional CFOs and Area Presidents—to deliver high-level financial leadership to small and mid-sized businesses. These teams provide embedded CFO services like budgeting, forecasting, cash-flow optimization, strategic planning, and exit readiness.

The franchise opportunity launched in April 2018, requiring prospective Area Presidents to invest via a franchise agreement and fee, granting access to FocusCFO’s proprietary system, training, marketing, and community resources.

FocusCFO sets itself apart by embedding CFOs into client leadership teams, rather than acting as an external consulting service. Its Sherpa Teams combine deep C-suite experience with a collaborative model that pairs CFOs and Area Presidents on each engagement.

Training

Focus CFO provides a robust and multi-phase training program to ensure franchisees are well-prepared to operate their business within its system:

1. Initial Training via Playbook: Upon signing the Franchise Agreement and paying the fee, franchisees gain access to the confidential Focus CFO Playbook. They are required to complete designated sections within two weeks. This foundational training introduces the business development process and client delivery standards.
2. Focus CFO Mastery Program: All new franchisees must attend this virtual program consisting of six 90-minute sessions held twice monthly. It reinforces standards and best practices from the initial training and deepens operational understanding.
3. Cybersecurity Training: Franchisees must complete online cybersecurity training within a week of receiving access. They are also subject to phishing tests and, if failed, must complete additional training.

Territory Protection

Focus CFO does not provide exclusive territory rights to its franchisees. Instead, each franchisee is assigned a specific non-exclusive geographic territory, generally defined as a 75-mile radius around the franchised business address.

Despite having this defined area, multiple franchisees may be permitted to operate within the same geographic region.

Franchisees are expected to collaborate with others who share their territory, reinforcing a cooperative rather than competitive model. However, they are restricted from engaging in direct marketing, solicitation, or networking activities outside their assigned area without prior authorization.