Yale Trademark Licensing

Overview

All manufacturers who produce goods bearing any of Yale’s trademarks must be licensed by the University’s Marketing and Trademark Licensing Department. Yale reserves the right to refuse a license to any person, business, or organization.

The terms of the license are contained in the Yale University Trademark License Agreement. The primary terms include:

  • Licenses are granted for the production of specific products.
  • Approved products must be identified as officially licensed.
  • Licenses are non-exclusive and prohibit exports beyond the licensed territory.
  • Licensees are required to pay a nonrefundable, annual advance on future royalty payments.
  • Licensees are required to pay an annual administration fee.
  • Licensees are required to participate in the Fair Labor Association (FLA) and to adopt the FLA Code of Conduct.
  • Licensees are required to provide a certificate of insurance rated A or better by Best Rating company listing Yale as an additional insured.

Use of the Yale name

Anyone interested in using the Yale name or trademarks for any purpose must secure prior approval from the University’s Department of Marketing and Trademark Licensing. Approval for all designs using the Yale name or trademarks must be obtained in advance from the University’s Department of Marketing and Trademark Licensing. Yale College students or student groups wishing to use the Yale name must comply with the Undergraduate Regulations.

Please see Frequently Asked Questions for more information, or contact  Leigh Anne Minutoli for further assistance.