Claudio Zumba, Co-Founder of The Line Inc.
"I always wanted to be independent. I had worked with several large crews with trusting clients. And I knew the custom mosaic work we offered was unique in the market," says Claudio Zumba.
In 2013, Claudio Zumba and his brother, Edgar Zumba, opened The Line Construction, a certified MWBE boutique construction firm specializing in porcelain, glass tiles, ceramics, and mosaics. They partner with other contractors, most often in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, to help bring their clients' visions alive. Their goal is to exceed their clients' expectations as they partner with them as creative executors.
"We started the company knowing it would take off one day. We learned the industry, took many business classes with SCORE and the SCALE program at CCNY. We are still learning—and aren't giving up now," says Claudio.
The majority of the projects they lined up for 2020 were postponed in March, as their clients were afraid of the risk or wanted to save the money. Claudio and his brother were forced to furlough two of their employees until they could line up new business. Nine months later, they’ve hired a new team with renovation projects lined up across New York City, including a marble installation on 5th Avenue in Manhattan.
"Community Capital New York has supported us every step of the way. Even before we opened The Line Construction, I knew I could call Julieta McPherson with my questions. It has been wonderful to have the CCNY as an advisor and lender. I am very thankful!"