This Is What We Stand Jump For
Maximizing NIL Opportunities for Student-Athletes and the Badger Community
What is NIL?
As of 2021, the NCAA now allows student-athletes to be compensated for their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL). Before, these athletes couldn’t make money off their personal brand while competing in college sports. But now, Wisconsin Badgers and other college student-athletes can be paid for the use of their name, image and likeness in charitable appearances, advertising, promotions, event attendance, and more – just like any professional athlete. What this means for you are unprecedented opportunities to partner with Badger student-athletes and create a win-win for everyone.
How Does The Collective Work?
We turn your donations into paid partnerships between student-athletes and charitable, non-profit causes that matter to them. Check out our 101 video to learn how it works!
Ways to Engage
VC Connect
As the sister organization of The Varsity Collective Charitable Fund, VC Connect offers opportunities that benefit both you and Wisconsin student-athletes. Become a member to provide NIL support while gaining access to exclusive perks and insider content. Or work with us to create a unique experience between you, your business and Badger student athletes.
Donate
Your tax-deductible charitable contribution empowers student-athletes to earn their value while bringing out their Badger best in the classroom, in the community, on the field and in the game of life.
The Varsity Collective partners with Badger student-athletes for charitable partnerships and philanthropic efforts that benefit both the student-athlete and the charitable causes they support in communities across Wisconsin.
The Varsity Collective Charitable Fund, Inc. is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)3 organization, exempt from federal income tax. Operating as a charitable organization, you may claim your contribution to The Varsity Collective Charitable Fund, Inc. as a charitable income tax deduction. Please consult your tax advisor for more information.
You can adjust or cancel your reoccurring contributions using this link.
Nearly 90% of donations to The Varsity Collective Charitable Fund will be spent directly on compensating Badger student-athletes as they create positive impacts on the community and advance charitable and philanthropic causes.
Donor Stewardship Program
If you’re considering a gift of $5,000 or more, please email contact@thevarsitycollective.com to discuss how to maximize the benefits of your donation. As the size of your tax-deductible gift grows, so do the exclusive opportunities for you — from customization over how your gift is used, to the opportunity to gain access to premier Badger events, fan experiences and much more.
All donations made to The Varsity Collective Charitable Fund will be reflected as informational gifts on the donor of record at the UW Foundation.
Charitable Partnerships in Action
Individual Partnerships with Non-Profits
Football players John Torchio and Jordan Turner supported causes aimed at helping kids in need in their hometowns
Full-Team Give-Backs to the Badger Community
Athletes from Women’s Hockey, Women’s Basketball and Women’s Tennis teams raised money for holiday drives including Toys For Tots, Ronald McDonald House and Empty Stocking Club
Engagement Opportunities with Athletes
Are you a brand or business? Looking to work with a UW athelete but not sure where to start? A wholly owned LLC subsidiary of The Varsity Collective Charitable Fund, Inc., VC Connect facilitates brand deals and partnerships between Wisconsin Badger student-athletes. VC Connect works to create unique branding opportunities that elevate all parties involved.
Create a brand deal or business partnership with Badger student-athletes
Book an appearance from a student-athlete for your business, organization or personal event
Become a member and get access to Badger exclusives, including free swag and VIP opportunities.
Jump Around on the Go With New Podcasts
Presented by The Varsity Collective, listen as fan-favorite former Badgers interview current athletes and break down life in the B1G spotlight. Subscribe to the newly launched podcasts today!
Subscribe to the Playbook
Catch all of the latest Badger NIL news and entertainment by subscribing to our monthly newsletter, The Playbook! Plus, you’ll hear first about exclusive opportunities like swag and upcoming The Varsity Collective events.
Contact Us
Have questions, comments, feedback? Want to get in touch about an opportunity that’s not currently on our site? Use the form below to contact us.