Start-ups typically face high uncertainty and limited resources, making the hiring process particularly difficult in their early stages. Drawing on the resource-based and competence-based views of the firm, along with signaling theory, this study suggests that founders’ prior start-up experience and the early involvement of corporate or university shareholders can help address these hiring challenges. These factors act as valuable signals and resources that enhance the firm’s attractiveness to potential employees. Furthermore, we propose that start-ups combining these initial strengths with a strong strategic focus on innovation are more likely to succeed in early-stage hiring. Our hypotheses are supported by evidence from a comprehensive dataset of innovative start-ups in Italy.