These days, athletes don’t need to be top-tier superstars to profit from their name, image, and likeness. Innovations in technology—such as NFTs, AI-driven marketing, and blockchain—are creating new opportunities for athletes to monetize their brand, connect with fans, and build long-term businesses. And if you’re not good with tech… don’t worry! These terms and tools don’t have to overwhelm you. Start by learning about just one of these tools, familiarize yourself with the earning potential around it, and test out ideas to see where it takes you. Whether you’re a Division I starter or a weekend warrior, leveraging these tools can help you create sustainable income streams for years to come.
How to Use Technology to Build Businesses
1. NFTs: digital collectibles for athlete branding. Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have revolutionized digital ownership, allowing athletes to create and sell unique digital assets like trading cards, exclusive content, or personalized experiences. Companies like NBA Top Shot have shown how NFTs can generate millions, but you don’t need to be a pro to take advantage. Platforms like OpenSea and Rarible allow athletes to mint and sell NFTs with little upfront investment.
How to Use NFTs for NIL Income:
- Create limited-edition digital trading cards or video highlights.
- Offer exclusive behind-the-scenes content for NFT holders.
- Sell personalized shoutouts or one-on-one virtual training sessions as NFTs.
2. AI-powered marketing: scaling personal branding. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making it easier than ever for athletes to manage and grow their brands without needing a massive marketing team. Tools like ChatGPT, Canva AI, and Jasper AI help athletes generate content, automate social media posts, and engage with fans efficiently.
How AI Can Boost NIL Earnings:
- Use AI to automate content creation for Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
- Leverage AI-driven analytics to find the best sponsorship opportunities.
- Implement AI chatbots on personal websites to engage with fans and sell merchandise.
3. Subscription-based content platforms. Athletes can create subscription-based content on platforms like Patreon, Substack, or OnlyFans (for non-explicit content) to provide value to fans and generate monthly recurring revenue. You can offer training tips, exclusive vlogs, nutrition guides, or mental performance strategies.
How to Monetize Subscription Platforms:
- Offer a “members-only” video series with workout routines.
- Provide exclusive NIL education and business-building insights.
- Give subscribers access to a private community or Q&A sessions.
4. Blockchain-powered sponsorship deals. Blockchain is changing how athletes sign endorsement deals. Smart contracts ensure that sponsorship payments are transparent and automatic, reducing the risk of non-payment from brands. Platforms like Klever and BitClout are helping athletes take control of their earnings.
How Blockchain Technology Can Help Athletes:
- Secure brand deals with automatic, guaranteed payments.
- Launch athlete-branded cryptocurrency or fan tokens.
- Tokenize your NIL brand, allowing fans to invest in your success.
5. E-commerce and digital merchandising. Athletes can launch their own online stores without a massive upfront investment. Platforms like Shopify, Spring (formerly Teespring), and Etsy make it easy to sell branded merchandise, digital workout plans, and even ebooks.
How to Start an E-Commerce Business as an Athlete:
- Design and sell branded apparel (hoodies, caps, jerseys).
- Offer digital products like training plans or personal development guides.
- Sell autographed digital or physical memorabilia.
Remember: NIL income is not just for the ‘elite athlete’. You don’t need to be a nationally recognized athlete to earn NIL income. Will it take extra work if you’re not a top-tier athlete? Absolutely. But, by leveraging innovations in technology, athletes at any level can generate income and build a business that lasts beyond their playing days. The key is to stay ahead of the trends, take action, and provide value to your audience.