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Linebarger Partner Helps Coordinate Small Business Relief Effort

Linebarger Partner Mark Ciavaglia has deep roots in the Texas City, TX community. Born and raised there, and bringing up his own family in Texas City, Mark has seen the area weather many downturns. Recently, as Chair of the Economic Development Corporation, he was able to give back to the community that’s given so much to him.

“Our EDC implemented a grant program to assist our small businesses in weathering the economic hardships resulting from the pandemic,” Ciavaglia said.

From the first spark of the idea, it took the EDC just two weeks to complete the relief effort.

Learning from other attempts to support local businesses nationwide, Mr. Ciavaglia knew there were two critical factors for EDC to be successful with this venture. “We wanted a quick turnaround so the application process was easy and not tied to a bunch of conditions. We wanted the checks in people’s hands so they could make payroll, pay rent, pay utility bills and other essentials.”

The EDC distributed almost $900,000 to 181 grant applicants, in amounts ranging from $700 to $14,000. The small businesses used these funds for overhead so they could remain in business, while shuttered. Grant recipients included a wide variety of local businesses, including barbers, hair stylists, construction companies, retailers, and restaurants.

Whether it’s leading the execution of a relief program, donating hand sanitizer, donating items and funds to local school districts, or volunteering on various community projects, Linebarger employees can often be found supporting or leading local efforts to assist their neighbors and members of the communities where they live.

Check out our LinkedIn page to see all about our community outreach efforts.