NC State has updated its guidelines for purchasing university-branded items and expanded its list of approved vendors for promotional products, following a national RFP led by Procurement and Business Services and the Office of Strategic Brand Management.

What This Means for Extension

These rules apply to all NC State employees — including Extension faculty and staff — as well as anyone ordering materials that feature NC State trademarks. 

Among the changes, the university has added to its list of approved vendors — the group of companies licensed to manufacture and sell merchandise featuring NC State trademarks.

View the updated list of approved vendors.

Updated Guidelines at a Glance

When you must use a LICENSED VENDOR:

Anytime university units — including Extension — use NC State trademarks on items meant to be given away or sold.

• Promotional or fundraising items — public giveaways or donor gifts that are distributed to the public to raise brand awareness or money
• Examples:
  • Apparel used as giveaways, like t-shirts or hats for a county fair
  • 4-H water bottles handed out at camp
  • Branded tote bags for a community event

When you have MORE OPTIONS:

Anytime NC State trademarks are used on merchandise or promotional items intended as internal resources (i.e., not for distribution).

• Official business uses — items for day-to-day Extension operations, such as office materials or signage
  • You CAN use non-licensed vendors here — but they MUST follow NC State brand guidelines and meet university policy requirements (e.g., RUL 01.25.01 – NC State Brand Use and Protection).
• Examples:
  • Apparel used internally as "staff uniforms"
  • Signage or displays for your facilities or events
  • Department or program stationery, flyers, internal publications, etc.
• *NOTE — Existing Extension-specific branding guidelines and processes, such as our business card and name badge orders, still apply.

Tip: Even in these cases, using a licensed vendor can save time and ensure compliance — they already know the brand rules and approval process.

Why it matters

Following these guidelines isn’t just about red tape, it:

• Ensures materials consistently meet brand and quality standards — making it easier for people to recognize and trust our work statewide
• Streamlines the order process by avoiding design or compliance issues
• Supports student scholarships with royalties collected from vendors

Review the Trademark Licensing site for additional information.

Helpful Resources

All Extension personnel that are (or may become) involved in the procurement process for promotional items are encouraged to take the same short online training our vendors complete. It’s a quick way to understand the process and avoid delays.

If you’re unsure how to proceed with your project, contact our NC State Extension Marketing and Communications team. We can help you choose the right vendor, navigate the approval process and ensure the best outcome.