Interesting idea. I like the idea of the human faction specializing in war machines. Ballistae for the might heroes, first aid tents for the magic heroes.
As for the other suggestion, I really like the idea of all heroes starting with equipment fitting their class. For balancing reasons, however, it would need to be all starting with just one artifact giving just +1 to one stat, which kinda limits it. But it could still work.
It's a really good idea, HootHoot. I'm intrigued.