Embedded CTO ($10K-$15K/mo, ~20 hrs/wk) vs Fractional CTO ($2.5K-$5K/mo, 4-15 hrs/mo) in the market broadly, and how Continuum's Partner tier ($3K-$15K/mo) scales across that range. Real price comparison, scope per tier, anecdotes, and a decision matrix.
Real per-depth menu for a fractional CTO monthly retainer in 2026, inside Continuum's $3,000-$15,000/mo Partner tier. Hours, response time, decision authority, and what each price actually buys. Three anecdotes from real engagements.
Non-technical founders can hire great developers without faking expertise. Here's the exact framework to evaluate candidates based on what actually matters.