The startup accelerator began almost two years ago with a focus on fintech and educational technology. It is designed to promote innovation in the accounting profession and give the Association and CPA.com more visibility into disruptive trends from emerging technologies. Finalists get a nominal funding investment and guidance from a panel of experts in the profession on marketplace needs.  

“The value proposition for these companies is they get access to insights from senior leaders of the Association and CPA.com, as well as a panel of distinguished advisors with deep ties to the accounting profession,” said Lawson Carmichael, chief operating officer of the Association. “And for us, the program keeps us connected to front-line innovation.”

This year’s finalists are:

• Gappify – A San Francisco company that uses bot technology – dubbed ‘Alan’ – to automate time-consuming, repetitive tasks for corporate accounting teams in such areas as accounts receivable, accounts payable and general ledger.
• Client Hub – The Gainesville, Fla.-based startup provides a modern communications platform for accountants and clients through an all-in-one workspace and mobile app, eliminating the need for clunky email conversations and easing the delivery of critical data.
• Dryrun – A Canadian startup that simplifies forecasting of cash flow, one of the most critical pieces of information for small businesses.

Each finalist will be given the opportunity to present information about their company in June at AICPA ENGAGE, one of the leading events devoted to public accounting in the United States.

“Early-stage technology companies are driving great innovation and new capabilities for the CPA profession,” said Erik Asgeirsson, president and CEO of CPA.com, the technology subsidiary of the American Institute of CPAs. “We got great feedback from our first class of companies last year, and we expect to build on our progress with this current group of innovative startups.”

For more information about the startup accelerator, please visit aicpa-cima.com/accelerator.

About CPA.com

CPA.com brings innovative solutions to the accounting profession, either in partnership with leading providers or directly through its own development. The company has established itself as a thought leader on emerging technologies and as the trusted business advisor to practitioners in the United States, with a growing global focus.

Our company’s core mission is to drive the transformation of practice areas, advance the technology ecosystem for the profession, and lead technology research and innovation efforts for practitioners. 

A subsidiary of the American Institute of CPAs, the company is also part of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the world’s most influential organization representing the profession. For more information, visit CPA.com.