SBDC Success Story
Linda Becker of Linda the Bra Lady
Linda the Bra Lady has been a significant employer in the Brooklyn\community since 2005, with roots going back even further with the work of co-founder Linda Becker. Since 2005, Linda and her partner and son Carl Manni have created a unique business that serves an important segment of the garment market. Linda’s and Linda’s On-line have enjoyed steady growth since 2005, serving women shoppers on-line and in the retail space. The family-owned and operated business had grown to more than 50 employees and reported total sales approaching $7 million in 2012. When Super Storm Sandy made landfall near New York City, Linda’s was hit hard by inventory losses and business interruption, which significantly impacted business operations. The storm’s impact forced the management team to scrap planning for a new additional retail location in Manhattan. Fortunately, Linda’s was one of the few businesses that received an SBA Disaster loan. However, because of the financial strain caused by the storm, the business was forced to also apply for funding from NYC’s disaster loan and grant program. Through sheer determination and with significant assistance from the Brooklyn SBDC and Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez’s office, the business secured a grant that enabled them to pay off vendors and debtors. Through nimble responsiveness, the team at Linda’s leveraged disaster funding and other financing to save the business and preserve precious jobs in the Brooklyn community. CEO Carl Manni has left no stone unturned in seeking assistance to sustain the level of operation of Linda’s and restore the business. Though the number of employees had to be reduced several times during the rebuilding period, the financial forecasts are very positive.
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