Our Difference
Cornerstone CPA Solutions is built to provide services with utmost care, thoughtfulness, and integrity—the way we believe it should be done.
A Boutique Firm. Different by Design.
About Greg Bennett, CPA
I am Greg Bennett, CPA and principal of Cornerstone CPA Solutions. I began my accounting career in 2005 on Hilton Head island, South Carolina, where I lived and worked for over two decades. In 2023, my wife Lisa and I relocated full-time to Petoskey, Michigan.
Much of my career has involved controllership (also encompassing technology as it equates to accounting information) and deep operational advisory roles for small businesses and non-profits, with gross revenue up to $20 million. I have directly managed client cash inflows and outflows of over $250 million. Today, my focus remains on entities under $3 million, including related tax advisory and compliance.
My professional drive is rooted in a strong passion for small business and the entrepreneurial spirit. I have always preferred working with a variety of businesses, non-profits, and individuals over being tied to a single corporate employer. That preference, along with a desire to offer services with genuine care, understanding, and thoughtfulness, is what led me to build Cornerstone CPA Solutions the way I have.
Though Cornerstone CPA Solutions is now based in Petoskey, we continue to service clients in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and across the country. Geography is not a barrier in the modern age.
A Few Things About Me
-
- Married to Lisa, a middle school English and Language Arts teacher (and tennis coach)
- I have a Bachelor and Master of Science in Accounting
- Former mentor for SCORE
- Currently serves as Treasurer for two non-profits:
- Harbor Springs Area Chamber of Commerce
- HARBOR Inc. (most recognized for The Loft in Harbor Springs)
- Actively licensed as a CPA in South Carolina and Michigan
Philosophy
We intentionally keep our client and services list small, because we believe that is the only way to deliver work with legitimate care and integrity.
Our team is small but experienced—one CPA supported by two part-time staff members. Our efficiency and depth of experience, and having a clear understanding of what small businesses and non-profits regularly face, allow us to work with more clients than a typical firm our size, yet far fewer than traditional firms. Our structure allows us to remain true to our philosophy of only providing services we can truly do well.
Clients receive deep involvement with their routine affairs—both operationally and from a planning perspective. This hands-on approach allows us to stay close to the day-to-day realities of each small business and non-profit we work with, while also helping with longer-term decisions and strategy. A holistic approach is appropriate, and it simply cannot be accomplished with once-per-year tax prep.
We focus on building genuine connections rather than maintaining distance. Responses are prompt and reliable. Processes are kept as simple and effective as possible. We treat every client as an individual with unique needs, not as a number or file. Tools and approaches are chosen because they actually improve outcomes and efficiency.
This way of providing services comes from our deeply rooted belief that there is integrity in only committing to work that can be done truly well. That standard is not something we are willing to compromise.
Rooted in Community
We believe in supporting the communities we live and serve, whether volunteering or supporting our clients’ businesses and non-profits. Giving back to our small-town communities matters because it changes lives. Dream businesses are built and the public benefits through non-profit activities. Money stays local. It is not simply a marketing effort—we genuinely believe in our clients and the areas we serve and call home.
Who We Work With
Our clients value real hands-on partnerships with their CPA, both day-to-day affairs and long-term planning. We work with small businesses and non-profit organizations (typically up to $3 million gross revenue) and related individuals. Our client profiles include:
-
-
- Wholesale distribution, including manufacturing and material conversion
- Retail consumer goods
- Professional services (lawyers, architects, etc.)
- Property owners’ associations (CIRAs)
- Clubs (social, golf courses)
- Non-profits (charitable, chambers of commerce)
- Photographers
- Individuals with business and investment interests
-
A Few Words from Clients
Greg effectively serves as our Controller and tax advisor. He works seamlessly with our local commercial banker and outside legal counsel. Greg is invaluable in overseeing our financial operations and has been central to the development of our first long-term financial plans.
Throughout the organization’s transitions, Greg has been steadfast in his support and astute with our accounting. He is knowledgeable, responsive, dependable and consistently presents with the upmost professionalism. As the Board Treasurer, we work well as a team and I know that I can rely on him for accurate reports and detailed forecasts. Greg’s financial advice is always appreciated, and comes with a tone of teaching and compassion for the cause. Job well done, Mr. Bennett!
Ready to experience focused service?
If you value a real partnership with your CPA who will deeply understand your needs, we’d love to explore the opportunity.