Frequently Asked Questions
What is a trademark?
A trademark is a word, name, phrase, symbol or any combination thereof that identifies and distinguishes goods or services of one party from those of others. A trademark is a brand name. Rights in trademarks arise as a result of the use of the marks in commerce to identify the source or origin of goods and services. In addition, a trademark remains the property of the owner so long as the owner continues to use it properly and protects its authenticity as a trademark. What qualifies as a trademark, logo or symbol? Any mark, name, logo, symbol, nickname, abbreviation, word, mascot, slogan, uniform insignia or landmark that is associated with UT and is distinguishable from any other university, team or organization.
Who must be licensed?
Any individual or company that wishes to receive UT's express permission to use any or all of its trademarks/logos on products or for services sold in the marketplace, whether wholesale, retail or online. Other activities, such as some noncommercial use of trademarks/logos, may or may not need to be licensed. Some activity may constitute fair use or free speech so as not to require license. Advice in that regard should be sought from your own legal counsel.
How long does it take to obtain approval?
A decision on any license request will depend on the nature and extent of the use being applied for, the number of trademarks involved, the number and diversity of products for which the trademark or trademarks will be used, and other possible factors, such as whether the University believes there is a need to seek legal advice on the application. However, in most cases, an answer will be provided in 30 days or less.
What products can be licensed?
UT will not license activity which it believes would disparage the University or any of its trademarks, or would be libelous, slanderous, scandalous, offensive, vulgar or constitute an unfair trade practice, or otherwise reflect negatively on the University. Some activity may constitute fair use or free speech so as not to require license. Advice in that regard should be sought from your own legal counsel.
How can you obtain a licensing application?
First register on the Affinity portal. Once approved, an invitation will be sent to set up a log-in and password. Vendors may then apply for a license. There is an annual fee of $200 and royalty fees if products are sold. There are no royalty fees for giveaways and internal usage; see below for details
Does all artwork have to be submitted for approval?
Yes. All art designs must be submitted and approved by UT’s Office of Communications and Public Affairs prior to products being produced.
How are UT’s marks able to be used with other trademarks (co-branding)?
Any use of UT marks with other trademarks must be approved by the Office of Communications and Public Affairs, or through a University contract.
How much does it cost to become licensed?
There is an annual fee of $200 and royalty fees of 12% if products are sold. There are no royalty fees for giveaways and internal usage.
What is the difference between the retail license and the internal usage license?
The retail license is used by companies that desire to produce licensed products for resale to the general public. The internal usage license is used by companies that desire to only produce licensed products for internal consumption by UT. No products produced under this license agreement may be sold to the general public. If I am a UT student or from a UT department, do I need to ask permission to use a trademark?
Yes. Student organizations and University departments must complete and submit the licensing approval form. It is important for UT to protect the trademarks, and controlling their use will maintain their value.
If the product is not going to be resold, does it have to be produced by a licensed vendor?
Yes. All items bearing UT marks must be produced by a licensed vendor whether they are for resale or not.
Are any requests exempt from royalties?
Generally, items are subject to royalties. However, each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
What does UT do if unlicensed merchandise is discovered in the marketplace?
Merchandise produced without authorization may be considered counterfeit or infringing and subject to all available legal remedies.
When am I able to use UT marks?
Any trademark that identifies or is associated with University may not be used without prior, expressed, written permission from The University of Tampa.
How long do requests usually take to process?
Typically, the review process is two to five university, business days. Each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure compliance with UT policies.
How can I obtain a list of licensees?
A list of licensees can be obtained through affinitylicensing.com or the Office of Communications and Public Affairs.
Is it acceptable to alter a UT mark?
No. At no time can UT marks be altered. Altering a mark would hurt its integrity. This would dilute the strength and value of UT’s marks.
Can an alumni or student group sell products using UT’s marks as a fundraiser?
Yes, but they will be subject to royalties. And, the approval process described will still be in effect.
Where can I get a logo to use on a document/flyer/poster/website?
Internal and external groups should contact the Office of Communications and Public Affairs to request a logo.