NIL - Frequently asked questions
1. What is NIL?
NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) allows college athletes to earn money through sponsorships, endorsements, and brand partnerships while maintaining NCAA eligibility.
2. How can college athletes make money from NIL?
Athletes can earn through:
• Sponsorships & Endorsements
• Social Media Promotions
• Merchandise & Apparel Deals
• Public Appearances & Autographs
• Content Creation (YouTube, TikTok, etc.)
3. How much do NIL deals pay?
NIL deals vary widely based on the athlete’s sport, performance, social media presence, and marketability. Here’s a general breakdown:
• Local & Small Brand Deals: $500 - $5,000 per deal
• Regional Sponsorships: $5,000 - $50,000 per deal
• National Brand Partnerships: $50,000 - $1M+ per deal
• High-Profile Athletes (Top D1 Players): Can earn $1M+ annually from multiple deals
4. What’s the average percentage agents take from NIL deals?
Most NIL agencies take 10-20% of each deal. At Dairyland NIL, our pricing is transparent and fair, with customized plans based on the athlete’s needs.
5. Can international student-athletes get NIL deals?
Yes—but with restrictions. Most international athletes on F-1 student visas cannot earn money in the U.S. due to visa limitations. However, Dairyland NIL has developed legal strategies that allow international athletes to monetize their NIL while remaining NCAA-compliant.
6. Do you help athletes get sponsorships outside of social media?
Yes! While social media promotions are common, NIL deals go far beyond Instagram and TikTok. We secure:
Brand Endorsements (Apparel, Food & Beverage, Auto, Tech, etc.)
TV & Digital Ads (Athletes featured in commercials and online campaigns)
Public Appearances (Speaking events, autograph signings, camps, etc.)
Merchandising & Apparel Deals (Athletes launching their own branded merch)
7. Have you worked with universities on NIL deals?
Yes! We have direct experience negotiating NIL contracts with the University of Wisconsin through our other business. This gives us a deep understanding of compliance, contract structure, and school-specific policies—an advantage that most agencies don’t have.