Graphite

Graphite operates a technology platform that connects enterprises with on-demand independent consultants for mission-critical projects. Founded in 2014 by Vikram Ashok, Jason Gordon, and Ashwin Krishnan, the company was initially known as SpareHire. The venture originated from CEO Vikram Ashok's firsthand experience in private equity, where he identified a recurring need among his portfolio companies for flexible, high-caliber expertise. This insight led to the creation of a marketplace designed to bridge the gap between top-tier independent talent and companies requiring specialized skills.

The firm serves a diverse client base that includes Fortune 500 companies, investment firms, and professional services firms. These organizations leverage Graphite's network to address capacity and capability gaps, particularly in areas like corporate strategy, finance, market research, and technology. The business model is centered on providing a more agile and cost-effective alternative to traditional consulting firms, claiming potential savings of 50-75%. Revenue is generated by facilitating these engagements through its platform, which includes tools for onboarding, managing, and paying the independent workforce. The company also ensures compliance by managing worker classification risks for its clients.

Graphite's core service is its curated network of over 12,000 independent experts, who typically have 10-15 years of experience and backgrounds from leading consulting firms and major corporations. The platform uses an AI-powered matching engine, supplemented by dedicated account managers, to connect clients with suitable experts, often within 48 hours. In June 2025, the company rebranded its domain to graphite.work to better reflect its focus on executing critical work for its clients. Graphite has secured over $20 million in total funding, with a significant $15 million Series A round in August 2021 led by Valor Siren Ventures, to scale its operations and product development.

Keywords: on-demand consulting, independent consultants, expert network, freelance platform, talent marketplace, strategic consulting, financial consulting, management consulting, workforce solutions, project-based work, contingent workforce, professional services, interim executives, corporate strategy, talent acquisition, flexible workforce, business transformation, private equity services, market research experts, operational support