The fractional proposal template that closes (with copy-paste examples)
A two-page proposal template purpose-built for fractional engagements. Used by operators closing $8K–$25K monthly retainers — copy it, fill it in, send it in 48 hours.
Most fractional proposals are 12-page consulting decks that try too hard. The proposals that actually close are 2 pages, written in the buyer's language, sent within 48 hours of the discovery call. Here's the exact template.
Page 1 — The frame
Header: client name, your name, date, "Proposal — Fractional [role]."
Section 1 — "What you're trying to solve." 3–4 sentences in their own words. Quote them where you can. This single section closes more deals than the price.
Section 2 — "What you want to be true in 90 days." Their stated outcomes, written as measurable bullets. (e.g. "A clean board pack we can run monthly without my CEO touching it.")
Section 3 — "How I'd approach it." 30/60/90 day plan, 3 bullets per phase, no fluff.
Section 4 — "Investment." One number: "$X,XXX per month, 6-month minimum, 60-day mutual termination." Optional 30-day paid pilot at full rate as the entry point.
Page 2 — The terms
Scope (specific deliverables). Out of scope (one short list — protects you). Time commitment ("~10 hours per week, available across business hours, 24-hour response window in Slack"). Tools and access needed. Reporting cadence. IP and confidentiality. Termination. Start date.
End with: "Two ways to say yes — reply to this email with the start date, or book 30 minutes to walk through it together: [link]."
Pricing line examples that work
"$8,500 per month. 6-month commitment. 60-day mutual termination. Includes everything in Scope below."
"$12,000 per month for the first 90 days (heavy lift), $8,000 thereafter. We agree the step-down at the 75-day review."
"30-day paid pilot at $9,000 to deliver [specific artifact]. Continue at $8,000/month if we both want to."
What to leave out
Your bio. Your logo. Your case studies. Your methodology. Your values. None of that closes — and on a 2-page proposal it just dilutes the signal. Send your background separately if asked.
Send mechanics
Send as a PDF attached to a 4-line email: "Hey [name], proposal attached. The short version: [one sentence]. Two ways to say yes inside. — [you]". Don't send a Loom video. Don't send a Notion page. PDFs forward cleanly to co-founders and boards.
About fractional proposal template
Should I include multiple price tiers?+
Generally no. Tiered proposals invite negotiation downward. Pick the right scope and price it correctly. The exception: a paid pilot as a smaller first step.
How long should I wait before following up?+
48 hours after sending, send a one-line nudge. If still silent at day 5, send a soft "closing the loop" note. After day 10, mark it lost and move on — you'll have your answer.