
Ask any startup what the single most important element to success is and — more often than not — the answer will be money. Financing always ranks as a high priority for the small fish trying to make it happen in the big pond of business. But it’s important to know where this cash comes from and what will come with it. These are actually the most important details to a startup. Startups need investors who bring not only smart money to the table, but also their networks and business acumen. Smart money works best for startups when nascent businesses pair with investors who provide a holistic approach to business. They can help in hiring the best talent, attracting interest from the most relevant stakeholders, securing a continuous presence in the press, avoiding pitfalls and, ultimately, fulfilling ambitions.