Merchandise Approval

Cornell, like most major colleges and universities, has a policy and a licensing program that regulates the use of its marks (i.e., names, trademarks, insignia, logos, images, and the like) on items such as T-shirts, caps, key chains, mugs, pens, banners, table cloths, stickers, etc. This process helps prevent bootlegging, ensures that Cornell marks are used appropriately on quality products approved by the university, and that the products are manufactured under a labor code of conduct that prohibits sweatshop conditions.

All uses of university name and marks, including those of schools and colleges, departments, programs, and student organizations and projects that are identified with Cornell, must be approved before any item can be ordered and produced.

For your request to be approved you must select a manufacturer that is licensed by Cornell University. A list of licensed manufacturers is available on-line (see the bottom section of the list). A separate request form must be submitted for each item. Cornell University's Brand Center includes the required on-line request form to obtain approval for merchandise designs. Submissions are typically reviewed within 48 business hours and you will receive an email with a formal approval, or instructions on how to make the design compliant. The email approval is required for expense reimbursement and should be obtained before placing any order.