UNC Charlotte Licensing

The Trademark Licensing Program at UNC Charlotte was developed to protect the rights to and the use of the institution's marks. A trademark licensing program gives the University control over its logos and marks, thus, ensuring the quality and consistency of all of the University's merchandise. It also enables the University to generate revenue from the sale of Merchandise bearing its logos and marks. The revenue is used to fund academic scholarships, facility improvements and athletics. Outside of the University, the trademark licensing program creates a cooperative and positive working relationship with the manufacturers and retailers who work with the University.

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte has registered its names, initials, and logos (trademarks) as a means of protecting them from unauthorized use and abuse. Permission is required before they may be reproduced. The use of the University's marks on a web site is also protected by federal trademark laws.

How to become a Licensed Vendor

The Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) is the licensing representative for UNC Charlotte. CLC is responsible for administering the licensing program, including processing applications, collecting royalties, enforcing trademarks and pursuing new market opportunities. CLC may be contacted at www.clc.com or by contacting our representative, Ryan Prowell.

There are three type of licenses:

1. Restricted-Designed primarily for locally-based vendors to sell to internal campus departments and student groups; products are not for re-sale but are for internal consumption, uniforms, or promotional give-aways.
2. Local-Designed for in-state vendors that wish to obtain a full retail license to sell merchandise; limit of 5 universities on the agreement within the state or nearby region (150 miles).
3. Standard-Designed for larger companies with established products and distribution channels; unlimited number of universities.

Not every vendor that applies for a licensed is approved. Items such as compliance history, accounting history, marketing plan, product/design uniqueness, product quality, and market need/saturation are taken into account when determining whether or not a vendor will be licensed.

Every vendor who is licensed is required to attach the "Officially Licensed Collegiate Products" label.