USPTO Hosts NIL Event for Student-Athletes in Sports

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is hosting a first-of-its-kind event for student-athletes focused on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. This event will provide valuable information and insights for student-athletes looking to monetize their NIL in the ever-evolving landscape of sports.

• The event will take place on October 10th at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University (ASU).
• It will cover various aspects of NIL, including rules and regulations, brand building, common pitfalls in contracts, and the importance of trademark protection.
• The USPTO is collaborating with ASU to bring together experts from both organizations, along with student-athletes who have firsthand experience in navigating the NIL space.

NIL: A Game Changer for Student-Athletes in Sports

The NCAA's traditional restrictions on student-athletes' ability to profit from their name, image, and likeness have been lifted, opening up new possibilities for monetization. This event aims to guide student-athletes through the complexities of NIL and equip them with the knowledge and tools necessary to leverage their brand and financial opportunities.

Key Takeaways from the USPTO NIL Event

The event will cover a range of topics crucial for student-athletes in sports navigating the NIL world. Attendees will learn about:

• The foundational NIL rules and governing bodies involved.
• Crafting an effective brand strategy to maximize NIL potential.
• Common pitfalls and risks associated with NIL contracts, ensuring student-athletes are protected.
• The importance of trademark prosecution with the USPTO to safeguard their brand identity.
• The benefits of registering a trademark with the USPTO to strengthen their brand and secure their rights.

The Rise of NIL-Focused Companies in Sports

As the NIL landscape evolves, new companies are emerging to cater to the needs of student-athletes. Athletiverse, founded by former student-athlete Dominyck Bullard, is one such example. This digital platform specializes in connecting student-athletes with opportunities to earn money through NIL.

• Athletiverse works with athletic departments, NIL collectives, alumni groups, and donors to facilitate NIL deals for student-athletes.
• This company provides a platform for student-athletes to connect with potential sponsors and monetize their NIL in a structured and efficient way.

Trademark Protection for Student-Athletes in Sports

Trademark protection is an essential aspect of NIL for student-athletes. By registering their name, image, or likeness with the USPTO, they can protect their brand identity and prevent others from using it without their permission. This is especially important as student-athletes seek to build their personal brands and monetize their opportunities.

• The USPTO offers valuable resources and guidance on trademark prosecution, ensuring student-athletes understand the process and requirements for successful trademark registration.
• By obtaining a trademark, student-athletes can establish exclusive rights to their name, image, and likeness, preventing others from profiting from their brand without their authorization.

The Future of NIL in Sports

The NIL landscape is rapidly evolving, and this event provides a platform for student-athletes to stay ahead of the curve. The USPTO and ASU are committed to supporting student-athletes as they navigate this new era of monetization opportunities in sports.

• By understanding the intricacies of NIL rules, building a strong brand, and leveraging trademark protection, student-athletes can maximize their potential and capitalize on their hard work and achievements.
• The event serves as a valuable resource for student-athletes, offering insights and guidance from experts in the field, helping them navigate the complexities of NIL and build a successful future in the world of sports.