Licensing/Trademarks

Logos and trademarks

The University of Maine enjoys a rich heritage, national acclaim and a prestigious reputation as an outstanding public institution of higher education, research, and public service. The growth of the university, its alumni base, and the national attention received by its athletic programs have produced a strong demand for products that display the trademarks, logos, and symbols associated with the university. The university’s licensing program was developed in response to this demand for UMaine merchandise.

Why have a licensing program?

Trademark licensing creates a positive working relationship between the university, local manufacturers of approved products, and the retail community. This ensures that merchandise bearing University of Maine trademarks uphold the university’s image and fulfills the needs of the consumer.

Where do licensing revenues go?

Licensed manufacturers pay the university a royalty on all products sold bearing University of Maine trademarks. The revenues received from the licensing program augment existing scholarship funds, thus providing opportunities for students who may not have the means to attend the university.

Who will need a license?

Any manufacturer of products bearing a mark of the university must be licensed before offering the product for sale. All retail outlets are responsible for ensuring that the merchandise they sell is licensed.

What products may be licensed?

Any product will be considered by the university. However, no product will be licensed without the approval of a representative of the University of Maine licensing program.

What qualifies as a University of Maine trademark?

A University of Maine trademark is any name, word, symbol or device used to identify the goodwill and/or services of the University of Maine. They include, but are not limited to artwork or graphic representations of the following:

Verbiage & Logos
University of Maine
UMaine
Maine (if referring to UMaine)
U of M
Maine Black Bears
Black Bears

The logos, marks, and verbiage displayed on this Web site are the intellectual property of the University of Maine and may not be utilized in any manner without first receiving written authorization from the University’s licensing office.

Who is responsible for the university’s licensing program?

On the University of Maine campus, University Relations is responsible for the Licensing Program. Please contact:

University Relations
The University of Maine
5761 Keyo Public Affairs Building
Orono, ME 04469-5761

• Email: UMaine.Licensing@umit.maine.edu
• Telephone: (207) 581-3758
• Fax: (207) 581-3534

For Information on How to Become a Licensee to Produce and Sell University of Maine Merchandise, Contact:

Licensing Resource Group
426 Century Lane, Suite 100
Holland, MI 49423

• Telephone: 616-395-0676
• Fax: 616-395-2517

Remember–”Look for the Label!”

The “Officially Licensed Collegiate Product Label” is your assurance that the merchandise you purchase is “official” and has been approved by the University.

Every time you buy an officially licensed University of Maine souvenir, the manufacturer returns a portion of that money to the University. Before you buy, look for the official red, white & blue label. Make sure the souvenir is as authentic as your support for UMaine and the Black Bears.