NIL Information for Student-Athletes

What is Name, Image & Likeness?

As of July 1, 2021, student-athletes competing in NCAA intercollegiate athletics are permitted to receive compensation for the use of their name, image, or likeness (NIL) for commercial activities, including endorsements through traditional and social media, appearances, entrepreneurial activities, in-kind deals, autographs and more, in accordance with NCAA guidelines and Valparaiso University NIL protocols.

Does the state of Indiana have a NIL Policy?

No. There is no current legislation announced for NIL in the state of Indiana.

Can a University employee or coach help arrange a deal for an athlete?

No. University employees, including coaches and members of the athletics department, CANNOT negotiate deals or contracts. However, they can direct student-athletes to NIL related opportunities on the Valpo Exchange.

What is the Valpo Exchange?

The Valpo Exchange is a student-athlete NIL business registry, custom-designed for businesses, donors, alumni, and any other interested NIL dollars wishing to connect with student-athletes. Registered businesses can search, filter, and initiate conversations with Valpo student-athletes to discuss an NIL deal. The Valpo Exchange is located within the INFLCR app.

What are the benefits for the student-athlete of using the Valpo Exchange to facilitate NIL deals?

The Valpo Exchange provides student-athletes a database of local businesses and other entities who have already expressed interest in engaging in NIL deals with Valpo student-athletes. When NIL deals are completed through the Valpo Exchange, student-athletes will receive a direct payment (without any transaction fee). Compliance disclosure is automated through the INFLCR Verified Compliance Ledger. At the end of the year, all transactions for a student-athlete within the Valpo Exchange will be consolidated into one 1099 for more straightforward tax reporting purposes.

What should I do if I reach an NIL agreement outside the Valpo Exchange?

Student-athletes who reach NIL agreements outside the Valpo Exchange should have the payer register with the Valpo Exchange and create the transaction through the exchange.

Links

Valparaiso University NIL Policy

Missouri Valley Conference NIL Standards