Final answer:
In capitalism, the individuals who provide the financing for businesses are called capitalists. They invest with the intention of making a profit, and their investments can take several forms, including personal funds and participation as angel investors.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a capitalist economic system, those who provide money to finance businesses are known as capitalists. In capitalism, there is private ownership of businesses and individuals or entities invest capital with the intention to produce a profit and accrue wealth. These investors provide financial capital in various forms, such as personal investment, angel investors, or by reinvesting profits. Such financial backers are fundamental to the growth and success of businesses as they facilitate the funding necessary for startups and expansions.
As an example, when individuals like Sarah, Antonio, and Chris each invest money into a business, they are acting as capitalists. Their aim is to see a return on their investment in the form of profits, which they can then reinvest, spend, or use to support other ventures. The ability to choose where and how to invest their capital is a key trait of capitalists in a market economy.