Meet Tara Faquir, Co-Founder and COO of Trustate Corporation, an enterprise-wide estate operations and trust funding platform. Trustate’s end-to-end estate administration platform provides services in navigating the complex process of settling the property like estate law, complex tax planning, and social work, enabling clients with comprehensive, transparent, and affordable estate administration services.
Q: How did your company get its start?
A: Leah Del Percio and I started Trustate back in 2020, after both dealing with estate administration from different angles. In launching Trustate, we look at the problem through the lens of the professional, and the client they are serving, as applying our personal and professional experience to this problem allows us to know the entirety of the solution that we need to create.
Q: Why did you choose to become an entrepreneur?
A: Entrepreneurship has always been in my DNA. I was that kid hustling snacks and drinks out of anything with wheels, selling to anyone who would listen. As I got older, the vision became clear—I wanted to work for myself and build something of my own.
In my early twenties, I took the leap and opened a specialty athletic and swim boutique in a beachside town in Massachusetts. With no safety net, no savings—just sheer determination—I dove in headfirst. Newly married and figuring it out as I went, I learned more than I ever could have imagined.
From there, I kept evolving learning, adapting and growing my career. I worked alongside incredible entrepreneurs and gained invaluable experience at major startups like Rent the Runway. Each step along the way shaped my perspective, sharpening the skills that would ultimately prepare me for this amazing journey of building Trustate.
Q: Why did you choose to start your business in Tampa?
A: Both Leah and I were living in the Northeast when we decided to make the move to southern states in early 2021. My husband and I had visited Tampa a few years prior for a weekend away and I really enjoyed it. I encouraged Leah to check it out when house hunting, and they absolutely loved Tampa, so the rest they say, is history.
Q: How critical was the Tampa Bay startup community (investors, mentors, entrepreneurs, etc.) in your journey to becoming an entrepreneur?
A: Shortly after choosing Tampa as our new HQ, we discovered the incredible startup ecosystem thriving here. What set Tampa apart from more established hubs like New York or San Francisco was its growth-stage energy—an ecosystem actively working to elevate and showcase the businesses calling Tampa home.
The community was not only welcoming but also deeply invested in fostering innovation. Rather than being just another startup in an oversaturated market, we felt like we were growing alongside Tampa itself, contributing to and benefiting from its momentum.
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 are part of Embarc Collective, which has been an incredible experience for both our team and our growth as founders. The support, resources, and connections we’ve gained through this community have been invaluable.
What makes Embarc truly special is the access to a diverse network—not just other ambitious founders, but also seasoned mentors, forward-thinking investors, and experienced business leaders. The willingness of everyone in this ecosystem to share insights, offer guidance, and engage in meaningful conversations has been remarkable.
Q: What would your overall advice be to someone looking to start a business in Tampa Bay?
A: The city where you start your business won’t determine your success, but it can certainly support and accelerate your growth. For us, Tampa has been an incredible home for Trustate, offering a vibrant and welcoming ecosystem for founders.
That said, like anything in business, success depends on what you put into it. Tampa is rich with opportunities to connect with fellow founders, investors, and mentors—but it’s up to you to engage, show up, and build those relationships. The city does a fantastic job of fostering a strong entrepreneurial environment, but as a founder, you have to actively participate and make the most of what’s available.
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: There’s truly so much to love about Tampa, but one of my personal favorites is paddleboarding in the bay. While it may not be a “hidden gem” in the traditional sense, it never fails to be a refreshing and peaceful escape—especially on a beautiful afternoon.
Are you interested in learning more about Embarc Collective 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.