Frequently Asked Questions & Glossary

The licensing process can vary in length due to several factors outlined on CLC's Licensing Info page. Because the Restricted Licensee application process is streamlined, it is generally much faster. The Standard and Local application processes take varying amounts of time to complete based on the number of institutions being sought. Generally, the fewer the number of institutions requested, the more expeditious the application process. In the spirit of fairness, we cannot accommodate “rush” requests as all requests are treated equally and on a first-come, first-served basis.

The primary purpose of trademarks is to prevent consumers from becoming confused about the source or origin of a product or service. Trademarks help consumers answer the questions: "Who makes this product?" and "Who provides this service?". As consumers become familiar with particular marks and the goods or services they represent, those marks can acquire a "secondary meaning," such as quality indicators. Certain common words and geographical locations can also acquire secondary meaning and are afforded protection under the trademark law. "ARIZONA" is a geographical location, but it has also become a trademark for the University of Arizona.

Trademarks help consumers answer another question: "Is this product or service a good one to purchase?" It is obvious to most people that the University of Arizona does not make all or most of the manufactured products that carry the university's trademarks. Through the University's licensing program, companies have been authorized (licensed) to utilize the trademarks on a variety of goods and services. The university's willingness to license these manufacturers or service providers extends to them very valuable intellectual property assets that provide consumers with access to products they associate with the university.

Trademarks are critical to the integrity of our brand. For instance, when an unlicensed vendor uses our logo on cheaply made merchandise or on products produced under environments that do not adhere to the University of Arizona codes of conduct, our brand value shifts accordingly. Trademarks appreciate over time, making it easier for the university to differentiate itself from competitors, attract and retain talent, and expand services. 

The university's licensing agent, Collegiate Licensing Company, has extensive information at clc.com detailing the expectations and parameters around collegiate licensing. Additional questions can be directed via email to applications@clc.com.

A 15% royalty will apply if the item being produced is ordered by a university unit.

A 15% royalty will apply if the item being produced is intended for retail (i.e., resold for profit).

A 18% royalty will apply if the artwork includes one or more sponsor logos – regardless of whether the item will be sold or not.

There is no royalty applied for:

• Non-resale print items purchased by the University of Arizona for its exclusive use (such as brochures, letterhead, business cards, etc.) that do not include one or more sponsor/outside corporate logos.
• Artwork that does not include an official University of Arizona logo/mark. 

Please email licensing@arizona.edu to see if your order falls into this category.

Anyone who wishes to produce commercial goods or services that bear university trademarks must obtain a license to do so.

Please reference the University of Arizona brand guidelines.

Yes. The Block A, Wilbur and Wilma, and other University of Arizona logos are trademarked, which means you need official permission to use them on products you create and sell. For small-scale makers and artists, the university offers a Crafter’s License Program. This license allows you to legally use approved University of Arizona marks on your handmade items while following the guidelines provided. Applying for a Crafter’s License is the best way to protect your business, respect the iniversity’s brand, and give your customers confidence that your products are authentic. Email licensing@arizona.edu for Crafter’s License information.

Yes, but only if you are licensed. Food items – including cookies, cakes, and other baked goods decorated with university trademarks – fall under the same trademark rules as any other product. If you’d like to sell or distribute cookies featuring the Block A or other Arizona logos, your best option will be the Crafter’s License. This ensures your baked goods meet both licensing and food safety standards, and that you’re using the university’s marks properly. It allows you to sell on your website, social media and crafting sites like Etsy. Email licensing@arizona.edu for Crafter’s License information.

The University of Arizona takes trademark protection seriously, since counterfeit products can harm the university’s reputation and mislead buyers. If you see products that appear to misuse or copy the University of Arizona logos without authorization, you can report them anonymously by filling out the Trademark Infringement Report Form. Your submission will be reviewed by the University’s Trademark and Licensing Office, and appropriate action will be taken to investigate and, if necessary, remove the infringing products.