The following guidelines are specifically for university units. If you are a student group, please refer to the student group logo section and Student Association guidelines.
If you’re unsure of any language used in the explanations below, please see a full list of terms and definitions.
For questions about branded merchandise, including vendors, guidelines, and more, please contact Chloe Milbrand at cmilbran@buffalo.edu.
Whenever possible, use a primary university logo, brand extension or sub-brand lockup that includes the ™ or ® symbol. These marks are available for download by clicking on the “TM/® for Merchandise” button.
Primary university logo
Example of a brand extension lockup
Example of a sub-brand lockup
Since the spirit mark is an image without any supporting text, you must also use a secondary logo or reference that clarifies the relationship or connection between the university and the spirit mark. Using your school/unit lockup or primary university mark on the product satisfies this requirement. Please note that the interlocking UB alone is not permitted as a secondary reference.
Spirit Mark
Much like the spirit mark, the crest lacks a secondary reference. If using the crest, you must include the university’s full name either through a school/unit lockup, primary university mark or university name in plain text to satisfy this requirement.
University crest
UB logos and marks are offered only in full UB Blue (PMS 2935), in a combination of UB Blue and gray, and in full white or full black. Please do not alter the color scheme of any element.
UB Blue
UB Blue and Townsend Gray
Hayes Hall White
Bulls Black
Do not use the wrong shade of blue
Do not use a pattern as a fill color
Do not reverse the colors
Do not use an unofficial color
Your first choice in merchandise should always be UB Blue, white, gray or black. If a specific product is not available in those particular colors, or if you have a compelling reason to use a different color, the university’s secondary color palette should guide your choice.
For questions about branded merchandise, including vendors, guidelines, and more, please contact Chloe Milbrand at cmilbran@buffalo.edu.
All UB logos and marks require clear space for visual distinction, legibility and clarity. Please review the clear space rules for each mark.
The embroidery process has distinct challenges with our logos and marks, so we created separate guidance to address these issues. Remember, embroidery items require a sew out sample from the vendor. Ensure your timeline reflects this extra step (approximately two weeks if initial design is correct).
Many products have very specific areas to place a logo, mark or design, which is called an imprint area. Please be aware of this area when planning the item and design. For instance, a 3” x 5” notebook may only have a limited 1.5” x 2” area on the cover to print on. If the imprint area is too small to fit the desired logo, you will need to choose a different product with a larger imprint area.
For this product, the imprint area is limited to a small portion of the cover.
This product has too small of an imprint area for this sub-brand lockup.
This similar product has an imprint area that is more suitable for this sub-brand lockup.
Limit the information on your item to a logo and clear call to action such as one URL or phone number. We do not encourage using taglines.
The use of external marks or logos requires approval from both the university and the outside organization. This application is strictly monitored and may be restricted based on contractual or partnership relationships. For further information refer to the university’s Trademarks and Licensing policy and the Sponsorship and Advertising policy.
If you are using artwork that is not owned by the university, an artwork release form must be signed by the artist or, if in the public domain, written documentation is required to prove its status. No artwork that is perceived as an infringement on another trademark will be approved by the university.
If you are creating merchandise on behalf of a student group, please refer to the student group logo section and Student Association guidelines for more specific details.
The university does not allow tobacco or alcohol and alcohol-related products or items such as firearms, gambling articles, etc. View a complete list of prohibited items. Furthermore, derogatory words or sayings, or designs with unfavorable references to race, religion, sex, gender, national origins or disabilities, are not permitted.
The current university royalty rate is 12% except when using Little Victor branded assets. Little Victor has a 13% royalty rate. Royalties are included on all orders, however there may be certain circumstances where your order may be exempted from royalties. Little Victor assets can never receive a royalty exemption. The following circumstances need to be met to receive a royalty exemption (for all brand assets except Little Victor):
To learn more about royalty exemptions review the Trademarks and Royalties section on the Frequently Asked Question page.
The TML office can provide feedback and advice at any time during the design phase to help you save time and frustration. Simply send your design to UBTrademarks@buffalo.edu. They will also meet with you in person to discuss your options further.
Submit intended design to the licensed vendor producing the item so they can create a proof.
*Note: If you are confident that the design meets all brand standards, you may skip steps 3-4 and request your vendor to submit artwork directly through Brand Manager. If changes are required, the artwork will be disapproved and sent back for the vendor to correct and resubmit. Our goal is to minimize back and forth with the vendors through Brand Manager, so if you have any doubt about artwork please follow steps 3-4 for trademarks pre-review.
The University at Buffalo has developed strict guidelines in regards to branded PPE face masks. You must place your order with an approved collegiate licensed vendor that has permission to reproduce our logos on select face masks using predetermined logos and layouts. Guidelines can be accessed by clicking the PDF below or by sending an email to UBTrademarks@buffalo.edu or calling 716-645-4585.