Linda Lidstone turned a practical need into a growing business when she could not find affordable, customizable logo wear for her husband’s logging company. Moose Country Graphics began when Linda set out to create apparel in smaller quantities. Today, the New Sharon business provides embroidery, printed apparel, logo design, business cards, signs, banners, decals, and custom gifts for clients across the region.
Linda has lived in Maine all her life and launched the business six years ago. For the first five years, she ran Moose Country Graphics as a side business while working full-time. With a background in business management from Central Maine Community College, and with strong support from her family, she steadily built the company. She served local businesses, sports teams, and customers looking for personalized products.
As demand grew, Linda knew she wanted to turn her side hustle into something bigger, but she needed a plan. After a friend referred her to Maine SBDC, she connected with Business Advisor Jon Janson to help navigate the next stage of growth. Together, they worked on her business plan, budget, financial projections, pricing, and a successful CDBG grant application that allowed her to purchase a larger embroidery machine.
Linda says Jon’s support made a lasting difference. “Jon is an incredible resource and wealth of information that is not only supportive but genuinely cares about the business owners he works with.”
That guidance came at a pivotal time. As she and Janson were building her financial plan, Linda also lost her job. With the new funding in place and a clearer path forward, she was able to commit fully to Moose Country Graphics as her full-time work.
Today, the business has more than doubled sales each year and recently doubled the size of its shop. Moose Country Graphics now serves 11 local sports teams and 75 businesses and individual customers, with many returning and referring others. Linda has also worked with New Ventures and CEI Women’s Business Center as she continues to grow. Looking ahead, she plans to keep expanding while staying rooted in what she enjoys most, helping fellow small businesses get started and creating products that bring real joy to her customers.