Common Questions

Don't worry, we've just about heard it all.

Why should I use a licensed vendor when I can find it cheaper online?

Working with a licensed vendor ensures that William & Mary is being represented in the best way possible on merchandise. When working with a licensed vendor, they have been vetted to use the correct marks in the correct colors and have agreed to uphold brand integrity. William & Mary Licensing Administration works hard with their partner Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) to ensure that there is a good mix of vendors to produce a variety of products at various price points. (i.e., there is something for everyone).

I am just using the words 'William & Mary', 'Tribe', or 'W&M' on an item, but am not using logos. Do I still need to use a licensed vendor?

Yes. Even text treatments are registered with the USPTO and are covered by the Licensing program. 

I am a campus entity, but am using private funding to order my items. Do I still need to use a licensed vendor?

Yes. Licensed vendors are required regardless of funding source. If your order is over $5,000, you must also comply with the Office of Procurement policies. 

I would like to print our departmental logo on a t-shirt. Can I do that? 

For departmental logos (also known as "lock-ups"), please submit the Marketing and Communications request form. They will create a logo for your to submit with your order. Please allow at least one week for production.

I used to be licensed by William & Mary, can I still use the marks?

No. William & Mary requires an active license in order to use marks. Companies that used to be licensed but whose license has lapsed can re-apply through CLC. Please contact licensing@wm.edu for more information. 

I want to use the feathers, can I still print that logo?

No. This mark is reserved for specific use and is not part of our existing visual identity. We have a variety of logos that are still available, including the Athletics wordmark and the Primary Griffin. 

I want to print a shirt to support my student and their athletic team. How can I do that?

Many of our vendors accept orders of low quantities or allow for customization. Please review our list of licensed vendors or contact licensing@wm.edu for information. 

My student is graduating and I want to put the W&M logo on his/her cake.

We are happy to work with you! Please contact licensing@wm.edu for more information.

I am interested in becoming a W&M licensee. What type of license do I need?

William & Mary offers three license types: Internal Campus Supplier (ICS), Local and Standard. Your business model will dictate which license you are eligible to hold. An Internal Campus Supplier means you are supplying William & Mary with promotional-type products that will not be resold. A Local licensee means you are a small-to-medium sized business located within Virginia looking to sell William & Mary product either at retail or for resell. The Standard license does not place any limits on how and where merchandise is sold. Please visit www.clc.com for more information. 

I am a retailer interested in carrying W&M product. What do I need to do?

We work with a number of manufacturers that produce both apparel and non-apparel products. The first step would be to view our list of licensees to see if one of our existing partners meets your need. If you are unable to locate a licensed vendor to meet your needs, your selected vendor would need to be licensed before product can be produced. Please visit www.clc.com for more information.

I am a department wanting to print folders for our internal use. Do I need to work with a licensed vendor?

Print products should be produced in conjunction with the Office of Web and Design. Please submit a request for further instructions. 

I am ordering new equipment for my sports team and don't see a vendor that carries what I need. What should I do?

Please contact licensing@wm.edu for additional information. 

My company frequently does business with William & Mary and I would like to print giveaways showing our support. How should I go about this?

Please contact licensing@wm.edu for additional information.