The best companies, and CEOs, will surround themselves with investor "thought partners." Our advice is simple: Choose investors who will invest in your mutual success.

When it comes to solving problems, it’s often said that two heads are better than one. Same for startups. Having multiple founders helming a startup can bring diverse skill sets, experience, and networks to the table -- and an added gravitas that venture capital investors look for in a management team. Trustate is a case in point.