Alumna Amber Tarrac Builds Community Through Policy & Entrepreneurship

A proud second-generation San Diegan, Amber’s story begins in the vibrant streets of Barrio Logan and unfolds across city halls, state agencies, and entrepreneurial circles. Her career has been a masterclass in public service, equity, and bilingual empowerment. From managing millions in workforce training grants to launching mural programs that turn neighborhoods into canvases, Amber has always believed that economic development should be colorful, inclusive, and community-driven.

Yet, Amber  doesn’t just carry two decades of economic development experience—she carries the spirit of SDSU wherever she goes. A proud alumna with both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from San Diego State University, Amber is now planting seeds of change as a lecturer,  mentor, and founder.

FounderFuego: Lighting the Path for BIPOC Entrepreneurs

Throughout her career, Amber has been at the forefront of economic development.  Her work has spanned coast to coast with economic development work in the cities of Miami Beach, Escondido and San Diego. Building up, Amber became involved with the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.  In this role, she became keenly aware of the need for bilingual resources for entrepreneurs, particularly in times of crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In response, Tarrac founded FounderFuego, a platform dedicated to empowering startup and nonprofit founders. Through FounderFuel, a bilingual newsletter and podcast, she connects entrepreneurs with funding opportunities, mentorship, and expert coaching. Tarrac assembled a team of Latinx and BIPOC entrepreneurs to ensure that underserved communities have access to the tools and knowledge needed to thrive. Her approach emphasizes authenticity, lived experience, and cultural relevance. FounderFuego reiterates that entrepreneurs’ roots should never be a barrier to access. 

Growing the Roots of Others

Amber’s impact multiplies through the people she uplifts. She doesn’t just uplift entrepreneurs; she starts by working on building educational foundations. Her students learn how to make policy matter. Her mentees gain the confidence to lead, and her community sees economic development as a tool for justice and creativity.

“Helping people believe in their own power—that’s what I’m most proud of,” Amber says.

Her students don’t just learn about policy—they learn how to make policy matter.

Amber’s Advice to Alumni

“You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just start. Ask questions. Build community. And never forget where you came from—it’s your superpower.”