The University of Michigan enjoys a rich heritage, national acclaim and a prestigious reputation as an outstanding public institution of higher education, research, public service and sports. 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 UM merchandise. Any manufacturer of products bearing the marks of the University must be licensed before offering the product for sale.
All retail outlets are responsible for insuring that the merchandise they sell is licensed.
The University has the authority to approve or disapprove any product submitted. No product using the University's marks may be produced without the approval of a representative of the University of Michigan Licensing Program. The Athletic Department was one of the first to establish a comprehensive licensing program of University logotypes in 1980 when bothstate and federal registrations were obtained on all pertinent designs and marks. The original purpose was to protect and control the use of all marks and to insure the image and integrity of the University would not be damaged. To this end, the Collegiate Licensing Company was hired to assist us in enforcing all licensing agreements and policing the national marketplace.