NIL Frequently Asked Questions

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 Marquette University NIL protocols.

What is an approved NIL-related activity?

An approved NIL activity occurs when a student-athlete provides a service using their NIL in exchange for some form of compensation at market value. The most important concept associated with an approved NIL-related activity is "an exchange of services". The student-athlete provides a service using their NIL and the recipient of that service compensates the student-athlete in return.

What is Marquette doing to support its student-athletes in terms of NIL?

Marquette Athletics has launched Marq-U, an all-inclusive program aimed at providing student-athletes with the resources to be successful in the NIL era. The Marq-U includes partnerships with Altius Sports Partners, INFLCR, and industry leaders which give Marquette student-athletes access to NIL-related education and support.
Marq-U also incorporates the ongoing efforts of the Academic Services and Support Programs team, as well as our campus partners to support and educate student-athletes in areas including communication skills, brand building, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.
All student-athletes are accessible via Ring Out Ahoya Local Exchange for interested businesses and individuals to connect with student-athletes, propose and develop NIL activities and deliver compensation for those activities.

POLICY/LEGISLATION:

What is permitted under Marquette's NIL policy?

Marquette's full NIL policy can be found here.

Does the state of Wisconsin have a NIL Law?

No, Wisconsin does not have NIL legislation.

USE OF MARKS:

Can my company use Marquette logos or marks for NIL deals with athletes?

All companies looking to use the Marquette athletics logos and marks must seek prior approval from the NIL GM and Marquette Sports Properties.

LOCAL EXCHANGE:

How do I get in contact with Marquette athletes?

You can get in contact with Marquette athletes by registering with our Ring Out Ahoya Local Exchange or by contacting our NIL General Manager, Madison Dunker.

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 Ring Out Ahoya Exchange.

Do you have to be an official university licensee to register for the exchange?

No, but businesses will not be permitted to use university marks without prior written approval from the University.

Follow the following to begin the process to register for the exchange:
- Go to our Ring Out Ahoya Local Exchange.
- Click the "Request Access" tab.
- Select either "I am an individual, supporter or donor" or "I am a brand, organization or collective".
- Complete the steps to fill out your profile.
  - The Marquette's Office of Athletic Compliance and NIL General Manager accept/deny requests for access to the exchange and have the right to ask for more information prior to granting access.
How will I know when I am approved?
- You should receive an email from the institution verifying your approval within one week.
When can I start contacting athletes and processing payments?
- After being approved by the Office of Athletic Compliance, you will be able to contact athletes and process payments.

REPRESENTATION:
May student-athletes utilize outside representation?

Yes. Student-athletes may obtain professional representation (agent or attorney) for advice, contract representation, and marketing in NIL activities. That professional representation is not permitted to also represent the student-athlete in securing professional athletic opportunities.

COLLECTIVE:
Is there a collective that supports Marquette athletes?

Be the Difference NIL, a registered Wisconsin 501(C)(3) is a collection of donors and alumni that supports student-athletes at Marquette University. This non-profit collective is dedicated to creating opportunities for athletes that positively contribute to campus and the community at large, while maintaining the commitment of Marquette University to make a difference in the world.

How can I get involved with Be the Difference NIL?

You can contact Be the Difference leadership or donate here.

MISCELLANEOUS:
May student-athletes identify themselves as part of or in the promotion of an NIL activity?

Yes. Student-athletes may identify themselves and their status a student-athlete (e.g., "This is [student-athlete name], guard for the Marquette basketball team" or "This is [student-athlete name] of the Marquette Golden Eagles").

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