Meet the Founders of this Queen City Based Business

Marci Duniec

Co-Founder & President

I co-founded Stoke because I wanted to build something real, rooted in integrity, resourcefulness, and genuine human connection. After years in merchant services, I've learned that trust isn't something you ask for; it's something you earn. I do that by consistently showing up, being responsive, dependable, and willing to get into the weeds to find the right solution.

I bring creativity and a strong work ethic to my role. If there's a way to make it happen, I'll find it. I believe in treating people right, solving the problems at hand, and not being afraid to roll up my sleeves to make things better. To me, great work doesn't have to be flashy; it just has to be real, steady, and built on follow-through.

Outside of work, I stay busy with the Windsor Park Neighborhood Association and a local cat rescue, Windsor Kittens, as the VP of both. I'm often the one pulling together block parties, coordinating fundraisers & events, and making sure the music's on and everyone's got a drink in hand. Whether it's a well-run payment solution or a neighborhood event that brings people together, I love creating connection wherever I can.

The best part of running Stoke is building genuine relationships, finding the right solutions for complex problems, and doing it all alongside my sister, who inspires me to dream big.

Talia Duniec

Co-Founder & Vice President

For me, Stoke is about doing business with care, because I believe care is a powerful business strategy. It’s not just about being kind; it’s about being present, intentional, and deeply attuned to the needs of others. I co-founded this company to create a space where merchants and agents could feel truly supported, even when things get complicated.

Care, to me, means listening fully before offering advice. It means choosing long-term relationships over quick wins. It means asking the right questions so people feel seen, and not just sold to. In an industry that often feels transactional, I lead with patience, clarity, and calm. That approach has helped us build trust in places where it’s been lost, and find solutions where others might’ve given up.

I bring a steady, thoughtful perspective to our work. I like building quiet systems that hold people up, and making sure we’re growing in ways that stay grounded in our values. Vision and structure are my comfort zone, and I’m always thinking about how to make things feel a little more human.

Outside of Stoke, I’m raising a curious, kind, and independent child. Someone I hope sees what it means to build something with care. My husband and I love hosting family and friends for game nights, creative hangs, and sunny pool days. I believe life, like business, is better when it’s shared.