Final answer:
Essential items for starting a company and obtaining funding include a business plan, financial statements, and market analysis, as these provide necessary information for investors and others to evaluate the business.
Step-by-step explanation:
Items essential for those starting a company and seeking funding from banks, the government, or investors include a business plan, financial statements, and a market analysis. These documents demonstrate the founders' commitment and belief in the company's prospects, as well as provide crucial information for potential funders to assess risk and opportunity. In contrast, a company logo, mission statement, and an employee handbook, while important, are not typically required to secure funding. Product samples, customer testimonials, and website design may support a business case but do not replace the need for a formal business plan and financials. An employee schedule, office furniture, and business cards are operational elements and not related to the fundraising process.