What is Name, Image, and Likeness (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, including endorsements through traditional and social media, appearances, entrepreneurial ventures, in-kind agreements, autographs and more, in accordance with NCAA guidelines and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley NIL protocols.
Through a partnership with Teamworks Influencer, UTRGV Athletics launched the Rally the Valley Exchange, which provides the opportunity for student-athletes and registered businesses, organizations, and individuals to directly connect for NIL partnerships and opportunities.
NIL vs. Revenue Sharing
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL)
What it is: Student-athletes can earn income through personal brand partnerships (endorsements, social-media campaigns, camps, or appearances) with third-party businesses or collectives.
How it works: NIL income comes from independently negotiated agreements between student-athletes and outside entities, and therefore does not impact the NCAA’s institutional revenue-sharing cap. These agreements are separate from the university but require UTRGV approval, and must meet fair-market-value standards, with reporting through the national NIL clearinghouse, the College Sports Commission (CSC).
The use of UTRGV logos, marks or uniforms by businesses in NIL activities is strictly prohibited unless the participating business is an official corporate partner or holds an approved licensing agreement.
Revenue Sharing
What it is: Beginning in July 2025, universities may directly share a portion of athletic revenue with student-athletes.
How it works: Payments come from UTRGV Athletics revenues and are distributed across sports based on institutional strategy.
How to support:
- Gifts to the Vaqueros Athletic Fund and ¡Vamos Vaqueros! Fund help UTRGV fund and sustain its revenue sharing commitments.
- Contributions are charitable and tax-deductible through the UTRGV Foundation.
- Donors earn Vaqueros Loyalty Points for priority in seat relocation, premium seating, parking, tailgating, and postseason ticket requests.
Impact: Revenue sharing strengthens recruitment and retention, enhancing UTRGV’s ability to compete for championships, making it the most direct and sustainable way to elevate UTRGV Athletics.
The Rally The Valley Exchange
The Rally The Valley Exchange is a student-athlete NIL business registry, custom-designed for business, donors, alumni, and any other interested people/parties wishing to connect with student-athletes.
Registered businesses can search, filter, and initiate conversations with UTRGV student-athletes to discuss an NIL deal.
Once the NIL deal between a registered business and UTRGV student-athlete is completed, the business will use the Rally The Valley Exchange to create a transaction that will produce a direct payment to the student-athlete and automate a disclosure to the Influencer Verified Compliance Ledger.
VISIT RALLY THE VALLEY EXCHANGE
Who Can Get Involved?
Student-athletes, businesses, organizations and supporters can all play a role in creating NIL opportunities and supporting UTRGV Athletics across the Rio Grande Valley.
Student-Athletes
Build your personal brand, connect with potential partners and explore opportunities involving your name, image and likeness.
Businesses & Organizations
Connect with UTRGV student-athletes to promote your brand, engage with our community, and create authentic partnerships.
Become a Partner
Fans & Supporters
Support UTRGV student-athletes through the ¡Vamos Vaqueros! Fund and the 956 Club while helping create new opportunities for UTRGV Athletics and our student-athletes.
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about NIL at UTRGV.
What is NIL?
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) refers to a student-athlete's ability to receive compensation for the use of their personal brand, including their name, image, autograph, voice, social media presence, or other aspects of their identity. NIL opportunities may include endorsements, appearances, camps, social media promotions, autograph signings, personal businesses, and similar activities..
Do I have to report my NIL agreements?
Yes. All NIL agreements must be disclosed through the required reporting process in NIL Go.
Can I use UTRGV logos, uniforms, or trademarks?
Not automatically. Any use of UTRGV logos, trademarks, or uniforms, requires prior written approval through the University's licensing process.
Can I promote any business?
Most businesses are permissible. However, NIL activities involving industries prohibited by Texas law, NCAA rules, or institutional policy (such as sports wagering or certain illegal products) are not permitted.
Do I have to pay taxes on NIL income?
Yes. NIL compensation is generally taxable income. Student-athletes are responsible for maintaining records, reporting income, and paying any applicable federal or state taxes.
