Final answer:
Venture capitalists are individuals who invest in start-up companies with potential for high growth in exchange for ownership equity, offering both financial support and strategic guidance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The individuals who finance start-up companies with high growth potential in exchange for a share of ownership are venture capitalists. These professionals work for firms that gather funds from various sources, including individual investors, banks, and institutional entities such as corporate pension funds and insurance companies. Unlike simple investors, venture capitalists provide not only capital but also strategic advice on developing potential products, finding customers, and recruiting key employees. Their expertise and resources are critical for guiding start-ups toward success. Additionally, venture capitalists are typically involved in the management and strategy in a more hands-on way, gaining better information and oversight on the company's operations compared to typical shareholders.