Vendor Information

How to Apply

• Complete the Vendor Application Form and return it with payment and an insurance certificate by no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025. There will be no exceptions made.
• All vendors will be required to have an insurance certificate. Please refer to the homecoming vendor insurance certificate sample (pdf). 

Vendor Locations and Fees 

• Holmes Quad: $230.00
  o Located outside, adjacent to building #6 on the campus map.
• Student Center: $280.00
  o Located inside building #20 on the campus map.

Payment Options

• Accepted forms of payment include cash, check, money order or credit card.
• Checks must be made payable to Bowie State University.

Reviewing Your Application Status

After receiving your payment and completed registration form:

• You will receive a confirmation call at the number listed on your form.
• Your receipt for payment will be included in your onsite registration packet.
• On Homecoming Day, all vendors must check in at their assigned vending location before setting up.

Please note we anticipate a wide variety of vendors. You may encounter other vendors selling similar items.

#d0d0ceVendor Requirements and Restrictions

• All vendors must provide their own tables and chairs.
• Vendors may bring a tent. Approval is required for any tent larger than a 10’ x 10’ pop-up.
• Due to space restrictions, each vendor is limited to:
  • Four tables in outside areas
  • Two tables in inside areas
• Vendors must always remain in their assigned space.
• Soliciting around campus is prohibited.
• Permits are non-transferable and must be visibly displayed throughout the event.

Arrival and Setup

• Check-in is 7:30 – 9 a.m. at your assigned vending location.
• The unloading deadline is 11 a.m.
  • Vendors must bring their own equipment (cart, dolly, etc.) for setup and removal.
  • Vehicles must be moved immediately after unloading.
• Vending hours are 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Please ensure you bring everything you need for your space, as leaving and re-entering campus may cause significant delays and parking challenges. You are responsible for your items and must have staff present at all times. A campus access pass is required to enter campus. Once your registration is complete, you will receive a phone call with instructions on how to obtain your pass.

Prohibited Items

• Food or drink (unless pre-approved)
• Alcoholic products
• Tobacco or vaping products
• Credit card products and services
• Black market items (tapes, clothing, music, etc.)
• Combustible items
• Firearms or weapons
• Unauthorized BSU-branded materials

Health and Safety

• Face masks are optional; please respect individual choice.
• Vendors are encouraged to:
  • Bring sanitation supplies for their area.
  • Use credit card payments rather than cash.
  • Limit tent occupancy for safety.
  • Sanitize display and sample items regularly.

Parking

• Outside vendors: Lot Q and the grass area behind Alex Haley Residence Hall (building #13 on the campus map).
• Inside vendors will park in Lots N & O, adjacent to the Student Center  (building #20 on the campus map).
• Each vendor is permitted up to two vehicles, and both must arrive at the same time.
• Vehicles are not allowed on campus greens or sidewalks.

Trash and Clean-Up

Vendors must properly dispose of all boxes and bulk trash in designated dumpsters or remove items from campus.

Licensing Rules

Vendors may not use Bowie State University logos, the Bulldog mascot or the university seal without prior approval. For licensing approval, contact Donald Canfield at 240-825-5992 by no later than Friday, Oct. 17, 2025.

Licensing Requirements

• Completed licensing registration form 
• Review of products/samples
• Application fee of $280.00 (separate from vendor space fee)

Restrictions

• Vendors may not distribute or sell items already offered by the University Bookstore.
• Depending on your items, approval from the Bookstore Manager may be required (photos or samples may be requested).

Questions

If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact Karen Tyler at 301/860-3814 or ktyler@bowiestate.edu.Thank you for supporting Bowie State University.

Disclaimer: Please note that any procedures, policies or requirements mentioned above are subject to change. If circumstances require us to adjust the process or cancel vending, you will be notified immediately.