About
Cal.net is a California-based broadband provider delivering high-speed internet and voice services to rural and urban communities.
The Challenge
Challenge
Cal.net is on a mission to bridge the digital divide, bringing broadband internet to underserved communities in California’s Central Valley and mountain regions. Rapid growth created new challenges—securing funding, managing financial strategy, and ensuring stability.
The Solution
Strategic financial leadership
Through Toptal, Cal.net connected with a top CFO—a Harvard Business School graduate, former McKinsey partner, and private equity expert. The Toptal CFO played a pivotal role in securing financing and managing banking relationships, ensuring financial stability during rapid expansion.
Beyond CFO: Driving organizational growth
The CFO’s leadership extended beyond finance, as he was ultimately promoted to CEO. His transition reflected not only his capabilities, but also the flexibility and depth of expertise available through the Toptal network.
The Outcome
Financial stability & expansion
Under the Toptal CFO’s leadership, Cal.net secured funding, streamlined financial operations, and positioned itself for sustainable growth in the broadband industry. The company was able to scale its infrastructure and operations to expand internet access to thousands of underserved households.
A stronger executive team
By tapping into Toptal’s world-class talent network, Cal.net not only found the right financial leader but transformed its executive team. With a leadership style rooted in empowerment, the Toptal executive aligned the organization around a shared mission.