FAQ

For Companies

Q: What is Boardio and how does it work?
A: Boardio helps companies find skilled advisors globally to support business growth, market entry, funding, and other strategic goals. We post your opportunity anonymously to our advisor network and forward you relevant applications. You only pay if you start working with an advisor we introduce.

Q: Who are the advisors in your network?
A: Our network consists of 10,000 professionals from 100+ countries, including ex-founders, industry experts, investors, and business development specialists. All advisors apply to specific roles, ensuring genuine interest.

Q: What types of business challenges can advisors help with?
A: Common use cases include entering new markets, getting funded, building a sales network, improving operations, or preparing for an acquisition. Whatever your goal, we help you find someone who’s “done it before.”

Q: How much does it cost to find an advisor through Boardio?
A: Our core “Connect” service is success-based: you only pay a fixed fee (e.g. €3,900 for one advisor) if you start working with someone we find. No upfront payment, no hidden costs.

Q: Do you offer discounts for early-stage startups?
A: Yes. While our standard service is priced at €3,900, we understand that early-phase startups may have limited budgets. If you're a small team in the early stages, you can request access to a streamlined version of our service at a lower success fee.

Q: Can you also help with advisor agreements and compensation?
A: Yes. We provide templates (like the Founder Institute FAST agreement) and best practices. Typical compensation includes a retainer fee, success-based bonuses, or equity.

Q: Does Boardio guarantee that the advisor performs well?
A: No, Boardio does not guarantee advisor performance, as the actual collaboration and results depend on both the advisor and the company. However, to reduce the risk, Boardio offers a Performance Guarantee in selected countries. If the advisor you select does not meet the clearly defined, pre-agreed objectives within the first 3–6 months—and you can provide supporting evidence—Boardio will help you find a new advisor at no additional cost or allow you to choose another candidate from your original shortlist.

Q: Do I need to commit to one advisor right away?
A: No. Many companies start by interviewing several advisors and even work with multiple on a trial basis before finalizing ongoing cooperation.

Q: How long does the advisor search take?
A: Most companies receive 5–10 qualified applications within 2–4 weeks. It depends on the role, location, and timing of our newsletter.

Q: Can I find local advisors in specific countries?
A: Absolutely. Boardio’s strength is its global reach. Whether you need someone in Germany, India, or Monaco, we likely have advisors with relevant local expertise and networks.

Q: Why choose an advisor instead of a consultant?

A: (Open for the answer)

Advisors and consultants both offer expertise—but how they engage with your business is very different:

Advisors Consultants
Long-term collaborators with skin in the game Short-term problem solvers
Often join as strategic partners, sometimes for equity or performance-based rewards Typically charge high fees for time-limited engagements
Help you grow, connect you with their network, and act as sounding boards Deliver analysis and recommendations, then move on
Flexible engagement (e.g. 2–4 days/month) Often fixed-scope, high-intensity work
Work side-by-side with your team over time Work independently, with limited integration into your team

Why advisors are often better for startups and scaleups:

  • Advisors are more affordable and committed over the long term.

  • They bring not just knowledge but networks, hands-on experience, and genuine interest.

  • Many of our advisors are former founders or execs who’ve “done it before” and want to give back or stay engaged—not bill hourly.

In short:
If you’re looking for ongoing, flexible, and cost-effective expertise, an advisor is often a better fit than a consultant.

Q: Can I use Boardio to find board members?
A: Yes, absolutely. Many companies use Boardio to find external board members with relevant experience and networks. We help you find candidates who understand your business, bring strategic insight, and complement your existing board.

Q: What kind of board members can I find through Boardio?
A: You can find individuals with experience in international expansion, fundraising, scaling operations, industry-specific expertise, or governance. Boardio focuses on finding the right fit based on your company’s stage and strategic needs.

Q: How is a board member search different from a regular advisor search?
A: The process is essentially the same: we post your opportunity, interested candidates apply, and we present the best matches for your review. The main difference is that you specify you’re looking for a board member, and we target candidates with relevant board experience.

Q: Do board members through Boardio expect compensation?
A: Yes, typically. Most board members expect a compensation package that may include a board fee, equity, or both. The details are fully up to you and the candidate to agree upon. We also provide a contract template and best practices to support you.

Q: Can I build a full board through Boardio?
A: Yes. Some clients use Boardio to build or expand their board with multiple members. If you’re looking for several candidates, just let us know — we can structure the search accordingly.

For Advisors

Q: How do I become an advisor through Boardio?
A: Simply sign up for free at boardio.com/advisors, complete your profile, and apply to any opportunity that interests you. Companies review applications and may contact you for interviews.

Q: What kind of opportunities are posted on Boardio?
A: Most companies are startups or scaleups looking for help with international expansion, fundraising, or strategic growth. Roles range from informal advisors to board members or interim executives.

Q: Can I apply to multiple opportunities?
A: Yes—but make sure your application is tailored to each role. Avoid generic or AI-generated submissions. Companies want to see genuine interest. Please see our blog post on how to write a perfect application.

Q: Is there a fee to be listed or apply?
A: No. Advisor accounts and applications are free. There is an optional paid plan (Advisor Priority) that boosts visibility, see further details on that below.

Q: Do I get paid as an advisor?
A: Compensation is agreed directly with the company. It can be cash (retainer or performance-based), equity, or a mix. Many advisors prefer flexible, part-time roles.

Q: What’s expected from me as an advisor?
A: Most advisor roles involve 2–4 days of work per month, often remote. You'll share your expertise, open doors, and help companies make better strategic decisions.

Q: What happens after I apply?
A: You’ll get a confirmation. If the company wants to speak with you, they’ll reach out—usually within a few weeks. If not selected, you're still welcome to apply to other roles.

Q: Where do I find further information about Boardio?
A: You can join Boardio Webinar for Advisors. It’s a free 60-minute session for new or curious advisors. You’ll learn how Boardio works, what companies look for, how to improve your profile, and how to increase your chances of getting matched. Includes tips, examples, and live Q&A.

 

Advisor Priority

Q: What is Advisor Priority?
A: Advisor Priority is a monthly premium package (€99/month) that boosts your chances of being selected by companies. It includes a Verified Advisor call (valued at €99), priority listing in search results, and increased profile visibility—making you more likely to be contacted.

Q: What exactly is included in Advisor Priority?
A:

  • Verified Advisor call: A 30-minute session with a Boardio expert to validate your profile and focus areas.

  • Priority listing: Your profile is shown first to companies viewing applications.

  • Higher selection rate: Priority advisors are more likely to be contacted.

  • Enhanced visibility: Your profile receives up to 10x more views.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: Advisor Priority costs €99/month and includes the Verified Advisor call (normally €99 on its own).

Q: Can I still apply to opportunities without Advisor Priority?
A: Yes. The free advisor account lets you apply to all opportunities. Advisor Priority simply increases your visibility and selection chances.

Q: What’s the difference between Advisor Priority and Verified Advisor?
A:

  • Advisor Priority includes the Verified Advisor call and ongoing monthly visibility boosts.

  • Verified Advisor is a one-time purchase (€99) that gives your profile a Verified Badge for 12 months after a profile review and interview, increasing credibility but not affecting visibility in listings.

Q: Is Advisor Priority required to succeed on Boardio?
A: No. Most features are free. However, if you're actively applying and want to maximize your chances, Advisor Priority is the best way to stand out.

Q: Can I cancel Advisor Priority at any time?
A: Yes. You can manage or cancel your subscription at any time in your account settings. The visibility and benefits remain active for the rest of your billing cycle.