Welcome
The University of California, Berkeley’s Licensing Program protects and promotes the use of the University’s logos, name, seal, wordmarks, and landmarks. By licensing high quality, ethically sourced products, the Licensing Program works to strengthen and advance the image of the University while creating brand awareness in the retail marketplace. The cornerstone of the Licensing Program is the UC Code of Conduct for trademark licensees, which governs all UC licensees systemwide.
Internal Purchases Through BearBuy
Campus Departments
Process for purchasing merchandise using a University mark.
- To have your order considered for a royalty exception, fill out and send the online Royalty Waiver form before you submit a PO or contact a licensed company. This is required for accurate pricing.
- Download and select a licensee or licensees from the list to receive a quote.
- Work with the Licensee to have your artwork approved (licensee submits artwork).
- Submit PO or reimbursement to BearBuy.
Student Groups
Process for purchasing merchandise using a University mark.
- If you are using UC funds, in very rare cases you may be considered for a royalty exemption. If you are using club, sponsor, or private funds, please skip this step.
- Download and select a licensee or licensees from the list to receive a quote.
- Work with the Licensee to have your artwork approved (licensee submits artwork).
- Submit PO or reimbursement to BearBuy (and copy of waiver if applicable).
Custom Order, Fundraisers, Sponsored Items, Promotional Goods
- For these types of requests please contact Stephanie Matthews, Licensing Manager for specific guidelines and a licensee list, at stephanie_matthews@berkeley.edu.
Retail Licensing Information
Any commercial organization, company, manufacturer, or business wishing to use The University of California, Berkeley’s Trademarks for commercial purposes must obtain a license to do so. All use of The University of California’s Trademarks must be done under license or permission of The University of California, Berkeley.
Applying for a License
To apply for a license please contact our licensing agent, Learfield Licensing, at learfieldlicensing.com, or by clicking the
application link.
Types of Licenses
Standard License
For companies that produce licensed consumer products that will be resold, such as items for sale at retail in local, regional, and national retail outlets.
Advertising / Promotional License
This license is for companies who work primarily on sponsored projects.
Internal License (Restricted) License
For companies that produce licensed consumer products for sale ONLY to University departments and approved campus organizations for internal/non-retail use. For orders to be processed without royalties, Departments and Approved Organizations must have a waiver approved by the Licensing Office.
Reporting Unlicensed products
To report an unlicensed product or vendor, please email
legal@learfieldlicensing.com with the vendor’s name, location or website address, and a description of the unlicensed merchandise.
Use of The University of California, Berkeley’s Trademarks without license or permission is strictly prohibited. Prior authorization of the use of The University of California, Berkeley’s Trademarks will not be construed as an authorization of use in the future, nor will any prior course of conduct, use, or infringement prohibit The University of California, Berkeley from enforcing any of its rights with respect to the Trademarks. The University of California, Berkeley reserves the right to pursue any, and all legal remedies and will take whatever measures necessary to protect its Trademarks from infringement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are campus departments or student groups required to obtain permission to use the University’s names/marks/logos on items used as giveaways, fundraisers or for internal use (shirts for staff, etc.)?
Yes, in order for the University to maintain and protect its value, permission must be obtained from the Licensing Department and a licensed vendor must be used.
How does the artwork approval process work?
The licensee submits artwork through Learfield Licensing’s interactive website. This site manages the entire artwork approval process online. Artwork turnaround time can vary depending on volume, but it typically 1-2 business days.
If my product is not going to be resold, do I still have to select a licensed vendor?
All items bearing University marks must be produced by a licensed vendor.
How do I become licensed?
To obtain a license please go to
learfieldlicensing.com, where you will find information regarding the licensing process and where you can also access the licensing application.
How can I obtain a list of licensees?
A list of licensees can be on found
here.
Can I alter a logo or mark?
Logos or trademarks cannot be altered, as this would dilute the integrity, strength, and value of the marks.
How do I tell if merchandise is officially licensed by The University of California, Berkeley?
To confirm that a product is licensed, look for the “Officially Licensed Collegiate Products” hangtag and/or hologram sticker.
How does the University ensure that licensed goods are not produced in “sweatshops” or illegally?
The University of California system requires licensees to sign and adhere to the
UC Code of Conduct.
How long does it take to complete the licensing process?
The entire licensing process usually takes 14 to 21 days, but may take longer depending on the length of time an applicant takes to fulfill each requirement.
