Meet Max Echevaría, founder and CEO of Eskuad, a company supported by Tampa Bay Wave. Eskuad is a field data collection and management platform designed to empower frontline workers with real-time connectivity, even in offline environments. Eskuad provides teams with the flexibility, automation, and intuitive tools they need to streamline workflows, reduce errors, and enhance productivity. The company specializes in digitizing field operations for industries such as forestry, mining, energy, and logistics, enabling businesses to optimize processes and improve decision-making with seamless data integration.
Q: How did your company get its start?
A: Eskuad started with my personal firsthand experience of the inefficiencies and challenges faced by field teams relying on paper-based processes and limited connectivity. I saw a clear need for a mobile-first platform to streamline data collection, automate workflows, and provide real-time insights, even in remote areas.
Q: Why did you choose to become an entrepreneur?
A: I didn’t, but I don’t like to leave problems I can solve unsolved. And I’ve always been passionate about leveraging technology to solve real-world problems. Seeing the potential to revolutionize how field operations are managed and empower workers with better tools drove me to take the entrepreneurial leap.
Q: Why did you choose to start your business in Tampa?
A: The first organization that supported us, even before other programs in my home country of Chile, was Tampa Bay Wave. We’ve gained access to a strong network and mentors who helped us grow the business and raise capital. We also have access to decision-makers in our industries, for which Tampa has a hub, including mining companies, agricultural, and port logistical operators.
Q: How critical was the Tampa Bay startup community (investors, mentors, entrepreneurs, etc.) in your journey to becoming an entrepreneur?
A: The Tampa Bay startup community has provided valuable connections and support. While Eskuad’s focus is on global markets, the local community has helped us build relationships and access resources that have been crucial in our early stages.
Q: Are there any additional, local resources in Tampa that you’d recommend to newcomers or entrepreneurs that have had a positive impact on your business journey?
A: We’ve found resources like the Tampa Bay Wave accelerator, co-working spaces like WeWork, and dedicated spaces like Embarc Collective, where you can find entrepreneurs from which to learn and connect. And the entrepreneurs in Tampa are welcoming, friendly, and open to sharing their connections and experiences. Also, the universities of Tampa and USF are well connected with the ecosystem, providing access to talent.
Q: What would your overall advice be to someone looking to start a business in Tampa Bay?
A: My advice would be:
- Focus on building a scalable solution: Think globally from the start, even if you are building locally.
- Leverage the growing tech scene: Tap into the talent and resources available in the Tampa Bay area.
- Network strategically: Be open to making friends and build relationships with potential partners, investors, and customers.
- Be persistent and adaptable: The startup journey is full of challenges, but perseverance is key.
Q: It’s been great to hear more about your success as an entrepreneur in Tampa. However, we know Tampa has so much to offer throughout the city. So, we must ask – what’s your favorite hidden gem in Tampa?
A: I’m an outdoors person, so I love the trails, but what I love the most are the small beaches inside state parks such as Honeymoon and Fort de Soto over in Pinellas County.
Are you interested in learning more about Tampa Bay Wave and the opportunities available for up-and-coming entrepreneurs? If so, check out our their resources to connect further! You can also find additional information about growing your business in Tampa on the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council’s website.