Who Are We?
The Office of Trademark Licensing and Enforcement serves the University by promoting and protecting its name, marks, colors, brands, and all identifiable properties. Boise State has licensing agreements with over 350 companies, and has generated over $1 million in gross royalties for the 2010-2011 academic year alone. This value represents a 52% increase from the previous year and places Boise State University among the top 40 performing schools according to the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC).
The purpose of the Licensing Program is to ensure appropriate use of the trademarks of Boise State University both on campus and off campus. These apply to all instances of use of Boise State University’s name and trademarks. The Licensing Department also manages and oversees the licensing of images and audio-visual content relating to the University, as well as music licensing including the Fight Song.
Mission
The mission of the Trademark Licensing Program is to:
- Ensure proper control and use of Trademarks associated with Boise State University;
- Establish the process of granting authorization for legitimate internal and third-party use of University Trademarks;
- Ensure that the University generates revenue for its students and programs through a reasonable license royalty for the use of its trademarks;
- Protect all University Trademarks from unauthorized uses; and
- Promote the University in a consistent and uniform manner to protect the University’s reputation, name and image by permitting only appropriate uses by officially licensed vendors with the assurance that only quality products bear the University’s Trademarks, and to protect the consumer from inferior products bearing University Trademarks.
Summary of Licensing Program:
Boise State University’s registered trademarks, as well as other names, seals, logos, school colors and other indicia (“University Trademarks ”) that are representative of the University may be used solely with permission of Boise State University. Items offered for sale to the public bearing the University Trademarks must be licensed. Items manufactured for internal use, by students or staff or affiliates, must be first approved internally (as set out in more detail herein) and must be manufactured by a licensed vendor.
All CLC licensed vendors are required to identify their product with the “Officially Licensed Collegiate Products” label. With this label, alumni, students, fans and supporters know they are buying a product of quality and authenticity that has been manufactured in accordance with University set standards. At Boise State University, net revenues generated through the sale of licensed merchandise support the University’s general fund and athletic programs. Products that do not bear the label, but use the marks of Boise State University, may represent infringement of the trademark laws.
Licensing Process–Standard License
1. CLC Review: After the required paperwork is submitted to CLC (including any needed insurance information, marketing plans, etc.), the potential licensee and company information is sent to the University for review and approval. CLC will also forward any samples of product for the University to review production quality, and all relevant information to assist the University in the decision-making process.
2. University Review: The University will then review the company information, the product and its quality, and make a decision on whether or not to approve the company as a licensee. The approval process may include all or some individuals from the licensing agent, University Office of Trademark Licensing, and other parties as appropriate.
3. Decision Notification: Approval (or disapproval) of the licensee by the University will be sent to CLC, who will notify the potential licensee of the decision. Once approval has been granted, the licensee may proceed with submitting products/artwork for approval.
For information regarding handmade products and small projects, please refer to Crafter’s License.
For information on the Graphic Identity Policy and style guide, please refer to Graphic Identity Reference Guide.
For additional information regarding either acceptable or inappropriate uses of trademarks that is not covered in this policy, please contact the Director of Trademark Licensing on 208-426-4063 or at licensing@boisestate.edu.
This policy may be altered at any time without prior notice.