NCAA President Charlie Baker on Sunday announced the NCAA x Meta NIL Empower Program, a collaboration that will help women maximize their name, image and likeness endeavors throughout their time as college athletes. Baker made the announcement virtually to those gathered in Atlanta for the third annual NIL Summit.
Participants will have the opportunity to form direct relationships with Meta experts, who will provide product and business best practices. Participants also will make valuable connections with other student-athletes and industry professionals and receive exclusive access to various NCAA events.
The program will include education on building a community, using social media safety resources and preparing for the future. Corporate partner Invesco QQQ will assist the NCAA in building a financial literacy and career development session.
"This is a great opportunity for women college athletes to enhance their personal brand, directly engage with college sports fans and make connections for their future," Baker said. "We are thrilled to support student-athletes, not only as they learn more about how to capitalize on their NIL, but also how they can stay safe online and limit harassment."
The program is modeled after Meta's successful NIL Empower program, which has supported student-athletes for three years. As a result of the NCAA x Meta NIL Empower program, 100 female student-athletes will be selected for one of two three-month programs. Each program consists of one virtual session per month.
"Investing in the next generation of athletes and supporting the growth of women's sports on our family of apps is a continued priority for us," said Sibyl Goldman, vice president of global partnerships at Meta. "We are proud to partner with the NCAA on the NIL Empower program to maximize student-athletes' efforts to grow their community, unlock business opportunities and protect their online well-being."
Past participants of the NIL Empower program have lauded its ability to help them improve their content and make connections with sports industry professionals. The most recent NIL Empower participants significantly accelerated their follower growth, and every individual received at least one NIL deal.
"My experience in Meta's NIL Empower program was absolutely amazing. I learned so much regarding NIL, personal branding and even my future beyond collegiate athletics," said participant Savannah Schoenherr, a former gymnast at LSU. "I was able to connect with so many fellow student-athletes and professionals in the NIL and sport industry space that will serve me in the future when seeking career opportunities."
To apply for the fall and spring programs or to learn more, visit NCAA x Meta NIL Empower Program.
