Even with the best business plan in the world, a company may not succeed if it doesn't have the correct marketing strategy. If they can't get the word out, it doesn't matter how great a product they have, the company will never reach its fullest potential. A marketing firm also can help in creating branding, a logo and a name, as well as the overall message strategy. You have a very short time to get your message across, so you have to cut through the clutter. Of course, no one works for free.
Advisers get a return on their investment of time, advice and networking in many ways.
When it comes to payment, several options are open to companies, especially during the time when cash is at a premium. Some advisers will discount fees, defer payments or allow for protracted payment schedules. The reasons are compelling. When you help a young company, you're growing your own client base. Down the road, it all comes to fruition.