For Profit vs Not for Profit Copyright Laws

Copyright laws were created for the arts and sciences to protect the rights of creative individuals and assign ownership of their works. There is a major difference between nonprofit and for-profit copyright laws.

What are Copyright Laws?

Copyright laws are the legal means of protection in the United States Constitution designed to secure the rights of those who have authored original works of literature, music and other creative pieces. These copyright laws govern works that have been in publication and those that are still unpublished. These include movies, songs, poetry and computer software, among other works. Copyrights are very different from patent and trademarks in that they only protect works of authorship, whereas patents and trademarks are solely for inventions.

What are For Profit Copyright Laws?

For-profit copyright laws allow authors of original works to both protect their works and earn income from their proceeds. They also allow the owners to sell their copyrights to others. This is another way to make financial gains from copyrights.

What is a Nonprofit Copyright?

Nonprofit copyright laws are those that apply to nonprofit organizations, educational foundations and agencies using original works of authors in some format soley for charitable and educational pursuits. The products cannot be used to produce profits for the organizations.

So, What's the Difference?

There is only a slight difference between nonprofit and for-profit copyright laws. Both have specific functions of their own and go accordingly to serve that specific purpose.

Can Nonprofits Register Their Official Name and/or Logo?

Nonprofit organizations can have their names and logos copyrighted to represent their specific organizations. These items can include the names of the products and services they offer. They can include slogans and logos, as well as graphics and sound effects.