Licensing Basics & FAQs
Licensing 101
What’s a Licensor? What’s a Licensee?
Licensing can sound like a foreign language, but it’s actually pretty simple. Here’s the breakdown:
FAQs
Q: How do I legally put logos or brand names on my product?
A: You can’t just print a logo and hope for the best—that’s trademark infringement. To do it legally, you need a license from the brand owner. That’s where we come in: we connect you with licensors, negotiate the deal, and make sure it’s set up for success.
Q: What does the licensing process look like from start to finish?
A: Every program is different, but most follow a similar path: outreach and interest, deal negotiation, creative approvals, product development, retail placement, and ongoing management. We guide you through each step so you always know what’s happening and what comes next.
Q: How do I know if licensing is right for my brand or business?
A: That’s where we come in. We help you understand the landscape, identify opportunities, and determine whether licensing makes sense before you commit. Sometimes the smartest move is not to license—and we’ll help you make that call with confidence.
Q: How much does it cost to put brands or characters on my products?
A: Licensing deals vary. Sometimes it’s an upfront minimum guarantee plus a percentage of sales (royalty). Sometimes it’s structured differently. We help you understand what’s realistic, negotiate terms, and make sure you’re not overpaying.
Q: How long does the licensing process take?
A: Licensing isn’t instant. There are agreements, creative approvals, product development, and retail timelines to navigate. We help keep things moving efficiently and avoid delays, but most programs take several months from idea to shelves. We’ll guide you through every step so you always know what’s next.
Q: I own a brand and I want to expand it into adjacent categories, what do I do?
A: Amazing! You’ve come to the right place. We’ll evaluate your brand’s strengths and identify the adjacent categories that make the most sense for natural, authentic expansion. The goal: to extend your brand’s reach through new products and expanded distribution channels. Beyond strategy, we can also support you for as long as you need — managing day-to-day partnerships, overseeing creative approvals, ensuring accurate royalty reporting and forecasting, driving retail placement, and much more.
Q: I created my own content – it’s already live on YouTube and the viewership is in the millions. I know people are searching for product! How do I get my character into stores?
A: Congratulations! You’ve already done the hardest part. The rest is easy! Launch Licensing will partner with you every step of the way – from creating the product roll out strategy, to securing top licensing partnerships and getting your characters on products and into the hands of your fans!
Q: What if I don’t even know where to start?
A: Don’t worry—that’s normal. Licensing can feel complicated, but that’s why Launch exists. You can book a complimentary 30 minute discovery session and speak directly with me. If that’s not enough, we’ll move into phase 2 - and schedule an official brainstorm after which you’ll have more clarity and direction on where to begin.
The Licensor
The licensor is the brand owner.
They own the intellectual property (IP) — the characters, logos, designs, or names everyone knows and loves.
Think: Disney owns Mickey Mouse. Nike owns the swoosh.
The Licensee
The licensee is the partner (manufacturer) who pays for the right to use that brand/IP on products they make and sell.
Think: A toy company making a Mickey Mouse plush. Or a water bottle company making bottles with the Nike swoosh.
How It Works
Licensors grant the rights to use their brand.
Licensees create thoughtful products and bring them to market. The result?
• New revenue and expanded brand reach for licensors
• Trusted brand equity and retail growth for manufacturers
• Lower risk for retailers
• Better products for consumers
Licensing turns great ideas into products people want.
Why It Matters
Licensing grows revenue, expands brand reach, and gives manufacturers the power of trusted names.
Launch Licensing brings the right partners together to create purposeful products that consumers actually want.
