Frequently Asked Questions

University of Wyoming Athletics

Why control use of the University of Wyoming marks?

The University must control and monitor the use of its marks or risk losing its rights to use them as unique UW identifiers. The University has a compelling interest in controlling the use of its marks for other reasons as well. These include, but are not limited to the following:

Protecting the University's name and ensuring that its use, regardless of the unit at UW, is compatible with the University's excellence and reputation;
Ensuring that any products or services that bear the University's marks are of high quality and are used only in connection with products and services with which the institution has chosen to be identified and which, as a result, it has assumed some level of responsibility; and
Preventing misleading or inaccurate portrayals of the University's relationship to others or activities, or preventing others from taking advantage of the goodwill the institution has developed and which is symbolized by its marks.

Why do you have a Licensing Program?

To protect the name and identifying insignia associated with the University of Wyoming and the State of Wyoming. It also creates an opportunity to work cooperatively with vendors wishing to use the State and University's marks.

What qualifies as a University of Wyoming trademark?

A trademark is any word, symbol, design, or a combination of these which identifies and distinguishes the goods and/or services of one party from those of another. Simply put, any mark or design that is representative of any part of the University is considered a University mark, regardless of whether or not it is shown on the University's licensee artwork sheet.

How long does it take to get a company licensed?

The licensing process for in-state companies usually takes approximately one month, whereas the licensing process for out-of-state companies can take between 8-12 weeks. Products cannot be shipped or paid for until the manufacturer completes the licensing process or receives approval from the Trademark Licensing Office.

Why do we need to use an approved licensed vendor?

As a trademark owner, the University has the obligation to monitor and manage the use of its marks. By licensing vendors to produce products bearing its marks, the University is able to ensure that all uses of its name and marks are appropriate and positively represent the University.

Do campus departments have to obtain permission to use the University of Wyoming trademarks, names, or logos on products?

Yes, they need to adhere to the University Brand Standards (http://www.uwyo.edu/publicrelations/marketing/uw-brand-center.html), purchasing policies, and the trademark licensing policies of the University. When using an approved licensee of the University, the licensee will provide artwork to the Trademark Licensing Office for final approval.

Can a sponsor or corporate partner use the University of Wyoming marks?

Yes, sponsors and partners are allowed to use the University's marks with prior approval of the Trademark Licensing Office. However, its use of the University's marks must be related to its sponsorship/support of the University.

Are sponsors or corporate partners required to use licensees for promotional giveaway items bearing University of Wyoming marks?

Yes, and these products are subject to royalties.

We aren't selling the product(s), do we still have to pay royalties?

Yes, regardless of the intended use of the products, they are subject to royalties.

What type of designs will be disapproved?

The Trademark Licensing Office will not approve any design that bears its marks that is distasteful or doesn't positively represent the University. If our staff doesn't understand the verbiage being used or the design submitted, it will be disapproved and further clarification requested.

How do I get approved to make new products?

If you are making new products that were not listed on the Schedule B in your original licensing agreement, please send the Trademark Licensing Office sample images of these new products showing how the licensed marks will be utilized. If approved, we will add the item(s) to your licensing agreement and send an updated copy for your records.

Do I have to use brown & gold in my designs?

While it will always be the preference of the University that its official colors be used on licensed products, licensees are provided the flexibility to design and use products that do not necessarily incorporate the official colors of the University. Please remember to always submit your design to the Trademark Licensing Office for approval.

Do I still have to pay royalties if I am donating products?

Yes, royalties still need to be paid on products bearing licensed marks even if donated for a charitable purpose or given away as promotional products.

Are there any royalty exemptions?

Licensed products bearing University marks sold, invoiced or otherwise provided directly to the University of Wyoming Athletic Department, for the purposes of internal use by athletic teams and support staff and not intended for or used for resale purposes and/or promotional use shall be exempt from the collection and submission of royalties by licensees. There are a few other exemptions contained in the Trademark & Licensing University of Wyoming SAPP (such as vehicle decals and University uniforms to name a few).

Can I produce products with other collegiate marks on them?

You are encouraged to contact the Trademark Licensing Office before starting any rivalry design to discuss specifics and any potential issues. There are some universities that do not allow rivalry designs.

Do I charge sales tax on royalties?

Please direct this question to the Wyoming Department of Revenue.

What types of products need to be licensed?

All product ideas submitted will be considered by the Trademark Licensing Office. However, no product will be permitted for use without the consent of the Trademark Licensing Office.

What kinds of products will not be approved?

The Trademark Licensing Office will not license products that are judged not to be in good taste or are judged to be dangerous or carry high product liability risks. The Trademark Licensing Office also reserves the right to prohibit other uses that are deemed inappropriate and inconsistent with the image and mission of the University and/or the State of Wyoming.

As a retailer in Wyoming can I use celebratory messages in my signage or marketing materials?

Unless your business is licensed by the University to use its marks or state of Wyoming marks, you should shy away from using any specific logos or marks such as the Bucking Horse & Rider.
The following types of phrases are examples that can be used by retailers that are not licensed:

Congratulations Cowboys/Pokes on a Great Season!
Congratulations Cowboys/Pokes
Good luck Cowboys/Pokes
Good luck Wyoming Football!
Go Cowboys/Pokes!
Wishing the Cowboys/Pokes a Great Game!

If these celebratory messages are done through printed advertisements, the retailer or business must not advertise its products and services in the same advertisement (i.e. Go Pokes, Buy Your Snow Chains Here). Businesses should also avoid phrases such "ABC Company and the Cowboys, what a great season."

Filing a Trademark Registration - How do I register my own trademark?

Two useful websites with additional information on obtaining a trademark registrations: