Australian tech investment firm Scalare Partners acquires Planet Startup

ASX-listed tech investment and advisory firm Scalare Partners has acquired Planet Startup, a Brisbane-based virtual CFO services provider, to expand its support for early-stage technology founders.

The acquisition addresses what Scalare Partners says is a "critical gap" in the startup ecosystem by providing founders with executive-level financial management expertise, without the "prohibitive cost" of hiring full-time CFOs.

It also strengthens Scalare's ability to support portfolio companies and the broader tech community with comprehensive end-to-end critical services, from ideation through to exit.

Planet Startup reported revenues of $408,000 in FY25, up from $318,000 in FY24, with profit before tax increasing from $25,000 to $50,000. 

Under the terms of the acquisition, Planet Startup will become the operating brand for Scalare’s virtual CFO service line, with Orchard remaining as chief executive.

The transaction included a $150,000 upfront cash payment and $450,000 in escrowed Scalare shares, issued at $0.14 per share.

On completion, Planet Startup will join the Scalare group with no debt and available cash reserves of $30,000. The acquisition is expected to be EBITDA and cash flow positive from FY26.

Previous acquisitions by Scalare include Tank Stream Labs in September 2025, Inhouse Ventures in March 2025, Tech Ready Women in April 2024, and the Australian Technologies Competition in April 2023.

Scalare Partners CEO Carolyn Breeze said the growing demand for specialised financial management in the startup sector highlights the importance of this acquisition.

"This marks yet another milestone in the execution of Scalare’s long-term strategy," she said.

"Planet Startup has built an impressive reputation for delivering high-quality work and is highly regarded by its growing customer base for its professionalism. We are excited to be working closely with Marc, the Planet Startup team, and their customers to drive even greater impact across the startup ecosystem.”

Planet Startup CEO and co-founder Marc Orchard said joining Scalare Partners is a significant step in the company's journey to build a meaningful presence in the Australian tech ecosystem.

"A key benefit for us is that our customers will now have access to a broader range of services and expertise to help them succeed," said Orchard.

"The Scalare community is deeply engrained into the local tech scene and committed to supporting the success of the industry. This partnership enables our customers to tap into a wider suite of services and expertise, empowering them to achieve even greater success.”

Completion of the transaction is expected this month, subject to customary conditions, with Scalare to provide further updates as the integration progresses.