1. Purpose

These Terms regulate the authorized use of the names, logos, marks, and visual identity elements belonging to The Neutrals Organization (hereafter “the Organization”), including the certification mark THE-NEUTRALS™ and all related design elements, templates, and practitioner materials.
They protect the integrity, reputation, and distinctiveness of the Organization’s global brand.

2. Ownership of Marks

a. All rights, title, and interest in the names, trademarks, service marks, and logos of The Neutrals Organization, including THE-NEUTRALS™, are the exclusive property of the Organization.
b. Certification and designation do not confer ownership or any proprietary rights to the user.
c. The Organization reserves all rights not expressly granted in these Terms.

3. Authorized Users

The following individuals and entities are authorized to use the Organization’s marks, subject to compliance with these Terms:

a. Certified Neutrals and Senior Certified Neutrals in good standing;
b. Fellows of THE-NEUTRALS™;
c. Institutional Certification Partners;
d. Authorized affiliates or training partners with written approval from the Organization.

4. Permitted Uses

Authorized users may use the THE-NEUTRALS™ mark solely for professional identification and representation, as follows:

a. Professional Identification:

• On business cards, email signatures, professional profiles, or CVs;

• Accompanied by the full title, e.g. Certified Neutral – THE-NEUTRALS™ (Construction, India).

b. Digital Profiles and Websites:

• May display the approved logo or mark in accordance with the Brand Guidelines provided in the Practitioner Kit.

• The mark must always appear in connection with the Certified Neutral’s name and not as a standalone brand.

c. Printed Materials:

• Co-branding on official The-Neutrals booklet and 2-page brochure as provided by the Organization.

• Inclusion in proposals or profiles to verify certification status.

d. Presentations and Speaking Engagements:

• Certified Neutrals may use the mark when representing their credentials in conferences, webinars, or teaching engagements.

5. Prohibited Uses

The following uses are strictly prohibited:

a. Using the mark or logo in a way that suggests ownership, employment, or agency by The Neutrals Organization.
b. Altering, distorting, or modifying the mark, its proportions, colors, or typography.
c. Using the mark in connection with any activity that is illegal, unethical, misleading, defamatory, or inconsistent with the Code of Ethical Conduct.
d. Using the mark as part of a business name, domain name, or social-media handle without written approval.
e. Endorsing third-party products, services, or training programs using the mark.
f. Continuing to use the mark after certification has lapsed, been suspended, or revoked.

6. Brand Integrity and Visual Standards

a. The Organization provides a Brand Guidelines Manual as part of the Practitioner Kit, defining colors, placement, and proportion rules for digital and print use.
b. All Certified Neutrals shall adhere strictly to those standards.
c. The Organization reserves the right to audit or request corrective measures in case of non-compliance.

7. Co-Branding Permissions

a. Co-branding is permitted only in formats and templates approved by the Organization.
b. Any additional material (e.g., proposals, brochures, or advertisements) using the logo or mark must receive prior written consent.
c. Institutional Partners may apply for extended co-branding rights under a separate agreement approved by the Executive Board.

8. Term and Renewal

a. Authorization to use the mark is valid only during the period of active certification.
b. Renewal of certification automatically renews the license for use of the mark.
c. Upon expiration or suspension, all use of the mark must cease immediately.

9. Enforcement and Compliance

a. Unauthorized or improper use of the Organization’s marks constitutes a violation of these Terms and may result in disciplinary action under the Discipline & Oversight Rules.
b. The Organization reserves the right to take legal action to protect its trademarks and prevent misuse, including injunctive relief and claims for damages.

10. Reporting Misuse

Certified Neutrals and the public may report suspected misuse or unauthorized representation of the mark to the Organization at compliance@theneutrals.org.
Reports will be reviewed confidentially by the Brand Integrity Committee.

11. Revocation of License

The Organization may revoke a user’s authorization to use the mark if the user:

• Violates these Terms or the Code of Ethical Conduct;

• Engages in activities detrimental to the Organization’s reputation;

• Fails to maintain certification in good standing.

Upon revocation, all marks must be removed from public view within 15 days of notification.

12. Amendments

These Terms may be amended or updated by the Executive Board.
Revised terms are published on the Organization’s website and apply immediately upon publication.

13. Effective Date

These Brand & Trademark License Terms take effect on 1 January 2025 and apply to all current and future Certified Neutrals, Fellows, and Institutional Partners.

Issued by:
Brand Integrity & Compliance Committee

The Neutrals Organization
www.theneutrals.org