I dont understand why software "START UPS" like summly costed
 

300k + more to get started?

Softcore coding is free (assuming kid can code)
User interface/design is only 2k to 7k (outsourced)

They want to get salaries for themselves as "vice presidents" or whatever + hire staf for at least 6-12 months.
Yep, not he smartest way to spend that money. It could be done way better along the lines you suggest. Although marketing guy could be an exception, he would be smart hire.