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How do I write a contract to receive payment for my soon-to-be trademarked logo art and organization name?

18 months ago a close friend approached me, (I'm a professional graphic designer) about her idea of starting a local women’s entrepreneurial group. I was enthusiastic and supportive and after several more discussions (while we ran our 4m loop), I came up with the name “Arlington Women Entrepreneurs”- we’d call it awe! for short. I designed a logo, put up a basic wordpress website and maintained it for 14 months, photographed monthly meetings for social media postings and for the site - all told about 120 hours worth of work. I would frequently have meetings with my friend but of course, never got a contract spelling out my role in the organization, and stupidly made the assumption that when it became legit (whatever that means) I would begin to receive remuneration…

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Hunter Hart, Serial Entrepreneur with Clarity answered:

For clarification. If I understand correctly, this is the womans business and you currently own the logo/word mark?

For starters. If you filed the mark yesterday. You still do not own it officially. There is a long process of showing proof of use and paying the government fees. If you were my creative and squatted on the mark, I would take offence. There are other ways to extend your services that you should consider before this tactic. I know that might not directly answer your question. But, she is a non-profit and it might be best way to cut ties off and prospect new clients. On the other hand - if you need a stash of proposals, i used to own a creative agency to send and help you get started.

Michael Von Irvin MBA BSN RN, Business & Marketing Success Consultant & Coach answered:

In my opinion...the good news is that you probably do have some rights to the mark or at least could hold up anyone else using it for a long time. The bad news is you haven't won the lottery. It is not bound to bring you lots of money.

My opinion is that you should talk it over with the owner of the organization and tell him/her what you would like. If you have a disagreement, express your desire to be friends but that you want to be treated fairly. Maybe, equity is what you prefer. Think positively and work it out. Then start a business based on the success of what you did. Get the owner to spread your name and expertise as part of the deal.

Best of Luck,
Mike
From the Trenches to the Towers Marketing
I will be glad to help as my time permits.

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