Startup Advisors
Find the right startup advisor for your company
Access 11,000+ vetted advisors across 110 countries — from market entry specialists to fundraising experts and go-to-market operators. Pay only when you find the right person.
What they do
What does a startup advisor do?
A startup advisor is an experienced operator or executive who works with your company on a part-time basis — typically in exchange for a small equity stake, a monthly retainer, or both. Unlike a consultant who delivers a report, an advisor gets involved, makes introductions, and has skin in the game.
The best advisors bring three things: a relevant network you can access immediately, hard-won experience that shortens your learning curve, and credibility that opens doors with customers, partners and investors.
90% of companies using Boardio are looking for expertise outside their home market — making cross-border advisor searches the most common use case on the platform.
Common advisor types
How it works
Simple, risk-free process
From brief to shortlist in 2–4 weeks. Start free with Connect or let Boardio run the full process with Turnkey Search.
Describe your company, target market, and the type of advisor you're looking for. The more specific your brief, the faster and more accurate the match.
Boardio searches its network of 11,000+ and presents a curated shortlist of relevant candidates. Advisors apply directly — you see real profiles and actual track records.
Review applicants and decide who to engage at your own pace. With Self-service Connect, you manage this yourself. With Turnkey Search, Boardio curates the shortlist for you.
Further reading
Guides on finding and working with startup advisors
Practical articles on finding, evaluating and compensating startup advisors.
Frequently asked questions
What is a startup advisor?
A startup advisor is an experienced operator or executive who works with your company part-time, typically in exchange for equity (0.1–1%) or a small monthly retainer. They bring relevant networks, hard-won experience, and credibility that helps the company grow faster.
How much does it cost to find a startup advisor?
Finding an advisor through Boardio costs €890 (self-service Connect) or from €3,900 (turnkey full-service search). The advisor's own compensation — typically equity or a retainer — is agreed directly between you and the advisor.
How do I find a startup advisor outside my home country?
Boardio specialises in cross-border advisor searches. With 11,000+ advisors across 110 countries, 90% of companies on the platform find advisors outside their home market. Try Self-service Connect free or start a Turnkey search.
How is a startup advisor different from a consultant?
Consultants typically charge by the hour or project and deliver analysis or reports. Advisors work part-time on an ongoing basis, are compensated with equity or retainers, and have a personal stake in the company's success. Advisors make introductions and get involved — consultants advise from a distance.
