NIL EXCHANGE
Connect directly with Gopher student-athletes through the Golden Gophers Exchanged powered by INFLCR!
DINKYTOWN ATHLETES
Learn more about the collective that is connecting Gopher student-athletes with NIL opportunities!
MERCHANDISE
Shop for products that showcase Gopher student-athletes and their name, image, and likeness!
SUPPORT & RESOURCES FOR NIL
Gopher Athletics provides student-athletes with comprehensive brand building and educational programs through our student-athlete development office. Individuals are provided with programming that focuses on all aspects to maximize their Name, Image and Likeness.
| Department | Contact | More Info |
|---|---|---|
| Administration | Jeremiah Carter | |
| University Logos & Trademarks | Mike Wierzbicki | |
| Multimedia Rights & Sponsorships | Greg Gerlach | Sponsorship Opportunities |
| NIL Business Development | Brett Schreiner | |
| Facility Rentals | Premium Events | Rental Information |
| Student-Athlete Development | Peyton Owens III | |
| NIL Policy | Compliance Office | NIL Policy |
| NIL Legal Clinic | Chris Pham | Intake Form |
MORE INFORMATION
What is NIL?
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. This can include endorsements through traditional and social media, appearances, entrepreneurial activities, in-kind deals, autographs and more, in accordance with NCAA guidelines. The University of Minnesota's NIL policy can be found here.
What are the NCAA rules regarding NIL Activities?
The NCAA has released several rounds of guidance related to student-athlete’s Name, Image and Likeness activities. The University of Minnesota Office of Athletic compliance can assist individuals with questions related to a specific issue but general information can be found on the NCAA’s website.
Does the University of Minnesota have specific restrictions related to the types of activity a student-athlete can participate in using their Name, Image and Likeness?
As a part of the student-athlete code of conduct there are a narrow set of business categories which student-athletes are prohibited from engaging in NIL activities with. These are outlined in the University of Minnesota NIL Policy.
Can a staff member within the University of Minnesota Athletics Department assist student-athletes in obtaining or completing NIL activities?
No, NCAA guidance prohibits any athletic department staff member from marketing, negotiating or securing an NIL activity on behalf of a University of Minnesota Student-athlete.
Does the University of Minnesota receive any compensation from NIL deals which are executed via the Minnesota NIL Marketplace?
No.
Are international student-athletes, in this country on an F-1 visa permitted to earn compensation under NIL guidance?
US student visa regulations may prevent NIL compensation for international students while in the US and there may also be tax implications. Therefore, international student-athletes must not enter into any NIL agreements without the guidance from the University of Minnesota International Student and Scholar Services Office to guard against any potential immigration issues. More information related to International Student-Athlete employment can be found on the ISSS website.
Are University of Minnesota student-athletes allowed to use the University’s brand for NIL related activities?
All uses of University of Minnesota Trademarks and Logos must adhere to the brand guidelines which includes approval by the appropriate office. Companies looking to use University Marks and logos can work through Gopher Sports Properties who is the official rights holder for University of Minnesota Athletics.
May a student-athlete receive money/goods without providing a service?
No, NCAA rules define an impermissible extra benefit as something (money, goods, access, etc.) received by a student-athlete receives which is not in exchange for work performed. The student-athlete would be deemed immediately ineligible and must go through the NCAA’s reinstatement process before returning to competition.
If someone uses a student-athletes NIL without their permission, do they have any recourse?
Yes, if any person or business uses a student-athlete’s NIL without their permission, please contact the University of Minnesota Office of Athletic Compliance (compliance@umn.edu) for assistance.
What are collectives (e.g., Dinkytown Athletes) and may I work with them?
A collective is a group of University of Minnesota supporters who are dedicated to ensuring that student-athletes are provided NIL opportunities including from local businesses, fans and others in the community. The University of Minnesota and their athletic department staff members are prohibited from financially contributing to or working for a collective, however, they work closely with University staff to ensure that both NCAA rules and the Athletic Department NIL policy are followed.
HAVE QUESTIONS ON NIL ACTIVITIES?
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