Purpose
The University of Nebraska created a crafters license program to benefit the local craftsperson. We believe this program will provide crafters with an opportunity to use their creativity without infringing the University’s trademarks, while still allowing the University to maintain the integrity of its brand. We also hope that this program will be used by local entrepreneurs to test the market, before entering into a broader retail license with the University through its licensing agent, CLC. This license is ideal for fans and alumni who are interested in producing small quantities of merchandise.
Program
Below is a summary of the Crafters License program:
Who Can Apply?
A self-employed individual of great skill in the manual arts who produces items that are all or partly (>50%) made by hand or with a hands-on process in the home and selling/distributing to individual consumers via events or direct sale. A craftsperson does not utilize any fully automated processes and has no paid employees. The craftsperson must reside in the state of Nebraska.
When Can Crafters Apply?
The 2022-2023 program is closed. The application period for the 2023-2024 program is July 1, 2023 to July 31, 2023. The license is good for one fiscal year (July 1 to June 30) or when the predetermined amount of product is reached, whichever comes first. Crafter Agreements will be renewed on a yearly basis upon request by Crafter. Each renewal is subject to the same criteria as a new application.
How Does the Process Work?
The application form should be completed and submitted online. No mail applications will be reviewed. A Crafters License Agreement will be sent to the crafter for signature once the applications and photos/samples are reviewed and approved. The signed agreement should be returned to the Licensing and Branding Department with a check made payable to the University of Nebraska ($150 annual licensing fee, plus $25 or $50 for holograms).
What are the Fees?
A $150 fee will be charged by the University on an annual basis. Crafters are allowed to sell up to 500 units or $2,500 in sales revenue annually. Crafters are also required to purchase and display “Officially Licensed Collegiate Product” holograms on products ($25 for 250 holograms or $50 for 500 holograms).
What Products Can Be Made?
Items that are unique, handmade, and of an underrepresented category. Categories that are not permitted include:
- Apparel
- Headwear
- Drinkware
- Tailgate Games
- Decals
- Digital Downloads
- Consumable items/items used on or in the body
- Potentially other items on a case-by-case basis
Where Can Product Be Sold?
Nebraska’s Crafters License allows for sales to individual consumers only, and does not allow for wholesale or third party vendor/distributor sales. All items must be approved by Nebraska Licensing prior to listing or displaying for sale. Samples may be required for some items. Craftsperson can only sell products at the following locations if crafter contact information is provided and the Crafters License Certificate is displayed:
- Craft shows
- Farmers Markets
- Festivals
- Flea Markets
- Fairs
- Limited Online Sites (personal website or crafter-hosted websites, i.e. Etsy)
- Artisan/Co-op shops
- Distribution via events such as events organized by church, school, county, or state
Please note that in accordance with University policy, no solicitation of sales may be made on campus at tailgate events.