How Entrepreneur Services are Shaping the Next Wave of NIL Programming

Emerging NIL Trend

The Report

Veloxity Global explores how universities are helping student athletes leverage Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities to build successful businesses as part of NIL Programing. As NIL compensation remains concentrated among a few athletes, more schools are incorporating entrepreneurial initiatives into their programs.

Former D1 Quarterback and c0-founder of NIL startup MOGL Brandon Wimbush, along with Haneen Rashwan Baylor’s Director of NIL Administration. are at the forefront of this shift in NIL, offering key insights in this Veloxity White Paper.

NIL Success Stories - what’s in the report

Key insights to learn about:

  • The current distribution of NIL compensation, highlighting that 85% to 90% of earnings are concentrated in just 17.7% of student athletes, mainly in football and men’s basketball.

  • An exploration of innovative university programs, such as Baylor University’s NILXCEL and the University of Texas' Texas One Fund, which are empowering athletes to not only benefit from NIL but to develop lasting business acumen.

  • Success stories like Baylor’s Devin Turner, who founded Blessing Packs, and Cole Posey, who launched Hondo Hat Co., demonstrating how NIL can serve as a springboard for impactful entrepreneurial ventures.

  • Insights from former University of Notre Dame quarterback and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Brandon Wimbush, who shares his journey from elite athlete to entrepreneur, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities for student athletes transitioning into the business world.

  • Practical strategies for NIL directors and administrators to incorporate entrepreneurial education, mentorship, and access to funding, legal, and financial support for student athletes.

REal World Examples

Baylor University, under the leadership of Haneen Rashwan, Director of NIL Administration, has developed an in-house NIL unit that connects student athletes with critical resources such as mentorship, legal services, and financial guidance. Through partnerships with Startup Waco and GXG, this initiative helps athletes grow their personal brands and transition successfully into entrepreneurship.

Similarly, Arizona State University has launched the Student Athlete Venture Studio in collaboration with GoDaddy, providing over 650 student athletes with access to digital branding tools, educational content, and funding opportunities. This innovative studio supports athletes in building and launching businesses, equipping them for long-term success both in sports and entrepreneurship.

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