Final answer:
Cash is considered the lifeblood of any new small business as it enables the business to start up and maintain operations, which is a prerequisite for utilizing other elements such as market, customers, and product quality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lifeblood of any new small business is often considered to be cash. For many small businesses, the original source of money is the business owner themselves, who might cover the startup costs by dipping into their own bank account, or by borrowing money using assets like a home as collateral. Other sources include angel investors, who are well-to-do individuals that provide financing in exchange for a portion of ownership in the firm.
Options like a large target market, a customer base, and a quality product/service are significantly important for the success and growth of a business. However, without the initial influx of cash to cover startup costs and maintain operations, other elements cannot be effectively developed or utilized.