We’ve worked with FinTech startup Equali from the early stages of their growth, providing proactive advice, no-stress accounting essentials and strategic guidance to help the team scale.
We recently caught up with Equali founder Martin Burn to hear how our work together has supported the business and how a brief break from Blu Sky ultimately strengthened the partnership in the long run.
About Equali
Founded in 2022, Equali helps merchants, FinTechs and digital platforms gain greater control over their payment data. The platform automates reconciliations and reporting across the payment lifecycle, offering transparency and visibility across every payment in one place.
After years working in payments, Martin saw firsthand the operational headaches faced by merchants. Equali is the solution to a recurring pain point, providing clean, accurate data that enables better decision making and more robust financial control.
Support from the very beginning
Blu Sky was one of Equali’s first professional partners, introduced by a mutual contact based in Newcastle.
“I think we were only a few months into incorporation when we first reached out,” Martin explains. “Having Blu Sky on board meant I didn’t have to worry about the financial admin. It was all taken care of.”
From the outset, Blu Sky supported with VAT, payroll and other accounting essentials, allowing Martin to focus on building the product and speaking with prospects.
With an eye on keeping overheads lean, Martin decided to try a different route. “Another founder recommended a lower-cost, virtual accountant based in London and it sounded like they covered all bases, so I thought I’d give them a go,” he says. However, it wasn’t long before Martin returned to the Blu Sky team.
The difference between a provider and a partner
What Martin found with the new firm stood in contrast to his experience with Blu Sky.
“We were spending less but weren’t getting value in return. We had issues with onboarding, found it hard to speak with anyone and didn’t receive that extra level of support we’d grown used to with Blu Sky.
“Whilst the switch made financial sense at the time, it really lacked the proactive, accessible service that I’d grown used to.” Martin realised that, as Equali continued to grow, they needed accountants who would act as true partners and be equally invested in their success.
“After a few frustrating months, I called Josh at Blu Sky to explain what had happened and asked if we could come back. The rest is history, without hesitating, the team welcomed Equali back.”
Value that goes beyond the numbers
Since rejoining Blu Sky, the relationship has gone from strength to strength.
“From our perspective, our accounting is not something we’d look to change again anytime soon,” Martin says. “You honestly get what you pay for, and with Blu Sky you get a lot of value.”
“The team doesn’t just handle the essentials for me, I feel like I have a team of experts backing me at all times.”
Martin highlighted the importance of being able to speak to someone when needed.
“Josh was always available. I could call him up with questions about VAT, payroll, or EMI options and get clear, reliable answers. It’s those kinds of conversations that really matter when you’re starting out or growing a business.”
Even with a recent change in account manager, the partnership continues to thrive. “Josh recently handed me over to Bryony, and I’m confident it’ll be the same level of service. Everyone I’ve spoken to from Blu Sky has been super proactive and knows their stuff. The team are very keen to support, and there’s a lot of value that can be gained from those relationships.”
Peace of mind to focus on growth
For Martin, one of the biggest benefits of working with Blu Sky is the headspace it frees up.
“Honestly, the biggest compliment I can give them is that I don’t have to think about the finances. It’s just handled. That lets me focus on the product, the commercials and growing the business.”
“They’re always highlighting things that are potential challenges, roadblocks – whatever’s coming down the line. I know that if I ever need an extra set of eyes, they’ll be there.”
Looking ahead
As Equali continues to scale, Martin sees the relationship with Blu Sky developing further.
“We’re already relying on them for our day to day accounting, but forecasting and modelling are likely the next areas we’ll explore together in the future when needed.”
Blu Sky will continue to offer flexible, proactive support as Equali evolves, acting as a sounding board and stepping in with advice when it matters most. Reflecting on the journey so far, Martin adds:
“Being a founder is always going to be a bit of a rollercoaster, but I’m really happy with where we’ve landed. Blu Sky understands what we need as a start up, and it’s clear they’re invested in helping us grow.”
Need support that goes beyond the day to day?
At Blu Sky, we don’t just tick boxes – we free up founders to do their best work. If you’re looking for an accounting partner who’ll take care of the essentials and support you as you grow, we’d love to chat.
Get in touch with our team today to see how we can help.
