FLIGHT logo For Student-Athletes

Student-athletes who participate in FLIGHT will gain real-world education through various sessions (individually and in group settings).

NIL 101

Educate Hawkeye student-athletes on the rules and regulations on NCAA legislation, Big Ten Conference, and University rules, as well as applicable federal and state laws, to help them understand their rights and responsibilities to ensure compliance with the various regulations.

Personal Branding/Social Media

Educate Hawkeye student-athletes on the strategies and techniques needed to increase the awareness of their NIL and social media activities through positive brand associations, images, and personal brand identity. UI campus experts, UI athletics staff, existing UI partners, UI alumni student-athletes will collaborate in providing insight.

Entrepreneurship/Financial Literacy

Educate Hawkeye student-athletes on the assets needed to become their own personal small businesses including general business planning, understanding tax implications, wealth management, and elements of licensing. Partners will include UI alumni, UI campus experts, UI community partners.

Personal and Career Transition

Educate Hawkeye student-athletes on how to connect NIL activities into networking, interviewing skills. UI Academic Services and UI campus experts will collaborate in providing education.

Agent and Advisor Education

Educate Hawkeye student-athletes on the agent/advisor relationship, key partners in the industry, contract negotiations and rules education. Partners with UI Professional Sports Counseling Panel to provide feedback on any potential professional service agreements that student-athletes may enter for NIL purposes.

Student-Athlete Questions & Answers

Can athletes use UI marks and logos for NIL purposes?

No, you cannot utilize any photos and videos from the UI Athletics Department in paid partnerships without approval from the Trademark and Licensing Office. This includes content provided via INFLCR or gathered from any other outlet. You cannot make any alterations to photos and videos generated by the UI Athletics Department. In certain cases, it might be permissible with select businesses, please contact NIL General Manager, Scott Brickman.

Can I wear apparel partnership brands in university sponsored events?

No, you must wear team-issued apparel during all practice and competition activities and other team-sponsored activities/appearances.

Can I use photos from INFLCR for NIL purposes?

Yes, use of photos on INFLCR is permissible for personal NIL use purposes.

Can I hire an agent or advisor to help with NIL?

Yes. It must be disclosed through the INFLCR app and can only include NIL activities, they cannot advise on potential professional sports opportunities.

The NCAA is developing a professional service provider registry. which is intended to be a registration point for individuals interested in providing services to student-athletes. The registration system is intended to assist student-athletes with making informed decisions as they select their service providers. The registry is scheduled to be launched in Fall 2024.

As an international student, can I earn income for NIL activities?

Right now, the best advice we can provide is contact University of Iowa International Students and Scholars (ISS) to understand how Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) regulations impact your ability to engage in NIL activities. SEVP (the program which oversees F and J students) is still determining how NIL rules would work with F and J status and that they will issue guidance in the future. As soon as the guidance comes out, we will be sure to let you know.

Do I need to report income I make on NIL activities on my taxes?

Yes. Based on income requirements, you may need to file state and federal taxes.

What is a university (UI) trademark?

A UI trademark can be any word, phrase, logo, symbol, design, or a combination of these things associated with UI goods or services. Individuals (fans, customers, alumni, etc.) identify with UI trademarks in the marketplace and distinguish the UI from others and competitors.

How does one receive permission to use the trademark for NIL purposes?

Prior approval from Trademark & Licensing is required. A licensing fee may also be required if compensation is received.

Can an athlete endorse a business while in their UI uniform or jersey?

In certain cases, it might be permissible with select corporate partners, please contact scott.brickman@altiussp.com.

Will NIL earnings affect my financial aid package?

Athletic scholarships will not be impacted; however federal Pell grants and need-based aid may be impacted due to increased income. Be sure to contact the Office of Student Financial Aid for further information.