When I founded my first company, I looked at reports and updates for investors as administrative tasks. Homework, in other words, outside my core duties as a CEO. But then I had an epiphany that changed my whole perspective — and my business.

I discovered that having involved investors who held me accountable was actually a boon to my business. The interactions stemming from that "homework" would turn into strategy conversations, a chance to tap their collective wisdom and gain insights. They taught me quickly that the value of investors can go way beyond a check.

Nonetheless, some founders focus solely on the cash investors bring to the table. That's a mistake. What you should really ask during a funding round is this: Who can contribute the most value to my business? Value might mean funds, sure. And there's definitely a time and place for silent investors. But often, value can come in the form of expertise and connections, too.

Billionaire venture capitalist Marc Andreessen recently wrote that "raising money is the easiest thing a startup founder will ever do." Running your business is the true challenge, and for that, you need the smartest, most well-connected people you can find to help you. As the founder of a consumer finance company, I get it: Sometimes, a cash injection is useful. But cash doesn't offer wisdom, and it doesn't bring experience.

To grow your business, it's essential to train your fundraising efforts on building partnerships, not just securing investments. When I'm searching for partners, I follow these three rules to........

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