Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
How do I know if Summit is the right fit for my business or nonprofit?
If you're looking for more than surface-level fixes & if you want real clarity, stronger systems, and a partner who listens and leads with purpose, we might be the right fit. Our clients tend to be owners, directors, or leadership teams who are serious about building something sustainable and are open to thoughtful, honest support.
Whether you're navigating growth, facing operational strain, or just ready to work smarter, we’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward with confidence.
What does the first conversation look like?
It’s a conversation, not a pitch. We’ll ask about your goals, your current challenges, and what’s working (or not) behind the scenes. You don’t need to prepare anything or have the “perfect” answers. We’re here to understand, not to impress you with jargon.
Our goal is to learn whether there’s a good mutual fit. If there is, we’ll explain how we can help. If not, we’ll still point you in the right direction.
When should I reach out to Summit for help?
If you feel like your business or nonprofit isn’t reaching its full potential, that’s often the first sign it’s time for support. Maybe your books are a mess, your systems aren’t keeping up, or you’re making too many decisions without clear insight.
Some clients come to us during growth when they need better structure, sharper numbers, or leadership support to scale. Others are under pressure because things aren’t working, and they can’t keep doing it all alone.
Whether you’re starting up, cleaning up, or leveling up, Summit will help you get organized, regain momentum, and move forward with purpose.
Services & Structure
Do I need to sign up for everything, or can I start with just one service?
You can absolutely start with just one service. Many clients begin with a single area like bookkeeping, payroll, or strategic advising and expand as their needs evolve. We’re not here to upsell; we’re here to help where it matters most. Whether you need a focused solution or a more comprehensive approach, we’ll tailor our support to fit your priorities.
What industries or types of organizations do you work with?
We work with a wide range of businesses and nonprofits, from hands-on entrepreneurs and local service providers to growing teams and established organizations. Our clients span industries like healthcare, professional services, trades, and mission-driven nonprofits all the way up to large manufacturing companies, but what connects them isn’t size, it’s mindset. They care about building something that lasts and want to strengthen the way they lead, operate, and grow. If that sounds like you, we’ll likely be a great fit.
Do you only work with businesses in Florida?
While we’re proudly based in Central Florida, our reach extends much further. Thanks to remote tools and strong partnerships, we support clients in multiple states across the country. At the same time, we understand the value of local connection, especially in the Daytona, Ocala, and Gainesville areas where we’re most active. No matter your location, you’ll get the same thoughtful, personalized support.
Differentiation
How is Summit different from a traditional bookkeeper or CPA firm?
Most bookkeepers focus on transactions. Most CPAs focus on compliance.
We focus on the bigger picture.
At Summit, we don’t just track your numbers, we help you understand what they’re telling you. We blend accurate bookkeeping and financial expertise with operational experience and strategic guidance, so you can lead with insight, not just instinct. Our goal isn’t to do the minimum to stay compliant; it’s to help you build a stronger, more sustainable organization.
We’re not a volume-based firm, and we’re not chasing billable hours. We work with a select number of clients who value partnership, insight, and thoughtful support.
Do you replace my in-house bookkeeper or work alongside them?
It depends on your needs, but often, we’re an extension of your internal team, not a replacement.
If you already have a bookkeeper or office manager handling the books, we can provide oversight, support, and higher-level financial insight. That might mean cleaning up processes, improving reporting, or adding strategic advisory services on top of your day-to-day accounting.
And if you don’t have internal capacity, we can handle the full scope, from bookkeeping and payroll to CFO advisory and planning, until you're ready to build out your own team.
Commitment & Cost
Is there a long-term contract?
Nope. We believe trust should be earned, not locked in.
Most of our client relationships are long-term, but that’s because they see value and choose to stay, not because they’re stuck. We operate on flexible agreements with clear expectations and open communication. If your needs change, we adapt. And if it’s not the right fit, we part on good terms.
How much do your services cost?
It depends on the scope but you’ll always know what to expect.
Every organization is different, so we tailor our support to your needs, goals, and internal capacity. Whether you’re looking for hands-on bookkeeping, CFO-level insight, or something in between, we’ll walk through it together and provide clear, upfront pricing before any work begins.
No surprise invoices. No mystery fees. Just thoughtful, transparent support that’s built to fit.
Philosophy
What does it mean to “build the best business you can”?
To us, it means building with purpose, structurally, financially, and culturally.
It’s not about perfection, it’s about progress. The best businesses and nonprofits aren’t the flashiest or biggest. They’re the ones where the numbers make sense, the systems support the people, and the leadership is clear-eyed and steady.
We believe the most successful organizations are built by people who care about the work, the impact, and doing things the right way. When that mindset is matched with the right support, the results follow.
That’s what we’re here to help you do.
Ready to build something that lasts?
Whether you’re refining your foundation or planning your next move, we’re here to help you lead with confidence and support what matters most.