Lineate is a software development company with two decades of experience building platforms and apps (web and mobile) capable of simplifying complex data problems. It’s story began in New York in the early 2000s, when a successful engineer, in the true spirit of US entrepreneurship, created a company with distinct values and a constant dedication to technological progress. Since its inception, their custom technology solutions have helped companies improve revenue generation by enabling smooth, fast, and modern platforms to address the most significant pain points reliably and realistically.
Using modern technology, industry best practices, and agile development methodology, Lineate consistently seeks to achieve the best outcome, and this is what inspired GEORGIA TODAY to reach out to Giorgi Tsikolia, Vice President for the EMEA region at Lineate, to find out more. A former diplomat who, until recently, served as the Deputy Chief of Mission of Georgia in the United States, Tsikolia is also a vice president of the America-Georgia Business Council, a non-profit organization based in Washington, DC., who received his education from The Fletcher School of Diplomacy at Tufts University.
“We operate four offices on two continents, with our headquarters in NYC and a European regional office in Tbilisi,” he tells us. “We also have a presence in Yerevan, Armenia, and Krakow, Poland. Our primary clients operate in the US and European markets. Since 2006, we have completed over 910 projects, primarily in the AdTech, MarTech, MedTech, FinTech, and Media industries. Our clients include notable players in the US MedTech, FinTech, and AdTech fields.”
Over a year ago, Lineate established its office in Georgia to expand its reach and better serve customers in the US and European markets. The decision, Tsikolia says, was motivated by several factors, including Georgia’s favorable business climate, highly educated and skilled workforce, and location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Georgia has a strong IT sector and a growing startup ecosystem, making it an attractive destination for software development companies like Lineate.
“The country’s strategic location will make it easier for the company to serve customers in Europe and Asia, which is why Georgia is crucial for its international expansion. Alongside that, the Georgian government has also implemented business-friendly policies to encourage foreign investment, further supporting Lineate’s expansion plans,” Tsikolia notes, adding that Lineate is committed to working closely with government agencies responsible for developing the local tech industry, such as GITA, Enterprise Georgia, and the Ministry of Education, as well as other stakeholders, such as universities and vocational education training centers.
“To leverage the opportunities presented by the Georgian market, we have invested in its Tbilisi office and hired local talent to support its growth,” he tells us. “Lineate has created 95 new jobs in Georgia and plans to continue increasing its headcount in 2024. Lineate aims to achieve this by recruiting and training local talent, providing mentorship educational programs to employees, and through Lineate Dev School, its innovative program.”
Lineate also provides scholarship programs for Free University and Kutaisi International University students. Tsikolia says the company welcomes the Georgian government’s efforts to increase the local talent pool in the IT sector, including the 5000 IT Specialist Training Program, and was the first foreign company to receive the FDI grant, a government incentive for foreign investors implemented by Enterprise Georgia. Tsikolia tells us the company is also actively working with international donors, including USAID, to expand the IT labor market in Georgia.
In 2023, Lineate supported the Grace Hopper Award Program, recognizing girls and women in the Georgian ICT industry, a program which highlights organizations and initiatives that promote women’s participation in the ICT sector.
“We are also actively supporting local tech events, including hackathons, boot camps, and meetups, to connect with the local community and promote innovation in the industry,” Tsikolia says. “The company understands the importance of engaging with the local community, supporting social causes, and contributing to the economic development of Georgia through its operations in the country.”
Lineate and the US Embassy in Georgia also support the local Public School at Odzisi village near the administrative borderline. Lineate is committed to supporting the development of the next generation of tech leaders in Odzisi School by providing the students with access to knowledge, modern technology, and coaching.
“We are committed to being responsible corporate citizens, contributing to our communities’ economic development and social well-being,” Tsikolia notes. “To achieve this goal, Lineate has implemented a comprehensive CSR program that includes job creation, partnerships with local businesses, and investment in the local community. This dedication and commitment to positive change were crucial in my decision to join the company, leaving behind a successful diplomatic career.
“Today, as a critical player in the Georgian tech ecosystem, we are dedicated to promoting innovation and supporting local talent. We will actively participate in regional events and initiatives to help foster a thriving tech community in Georgia. By doing so, Lineate hopes to contribute to the growth and success of the Georgian tech industry for years to come.”
