My experience differs. Funding is a "relationship sell", and associates can be very helpful -- or not, as the case may be. For their areas of specialty, they'

My experience differs. Funding is a "relationship sell", and associates can be very helpful -- or not, as the case may be. For their areas of specialty, they're often more knowledgeable than partners. And it's their job to help find unexpected new deals. Oh sure, I've dealt with some bozo associates in the past, but they're the exceptions.