FAQ

An NIL activity refers to any opportunity where a student-athlete’s name, image, or likeness is used for commercial or promotional purposes—such as endorsements, appearances, social media promotions, or merchandise sales.

No, contributions to Big Red Collective, LLC are not tax deductible as charitable donations, as the Collective is not a 501(c)(3) organization. However, in some cases, individual or business contributions may qualify as deductible marketing or advertising expenses. We recommend consulting with your tax advisor to determine how your specific contribution may be treated for tax purposes.

While donations to Carthage College support important institutional needs, NCAA rules prohibit the College from compensating student-athletes for the use of their name, image, or likeness (NIL). Only independent entities, like the Big Red Collective, can engage in NIL opportunities with athletes. The Collective was created to provide a direct and meaningful impact: funds go straight to supporting student-athletes, not college overhead, administrative costs, or facilities. Your contribution helps them grow, compete, and succeed both on and off the field.

Yes. In 2021, the NCAA implemented an interim policy that allows student-athletes to be compensated for the use of their name, image, and likeness (NIL). This shift followed the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in NCAA v. Alston and has been supported by evolving state laws and NCAA guidelines. As a result, student-athletes can now engage in NIL activities and receive compensation with fewer legal or regulatory restrictions.

Yes. Carthage College has established a policy that provides guidance for student-athletes engaging in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) activities. You can view the full policy at Carthage NIL Policy.

NIL activities allow student-athletes to build their brand and earn income while maintaining NCAA eligibility. These activities can take many forms, including:

• Promoting brands or products on social media
• Making personal appearances at businesses, events, camps, or parties
• Participating in TV, radio, or print advertisements
• Endorsing third-party products or services
• Running student-athlete-led camps or offering private lessons
• Signing autographs at paid sessions
• Selling personally branded apparel or other items
• Operating a business as a student-athlete

Yes. The Big Red Collective actively partners with local nonprofits by identifying opportunities for student-athletes to contribute to community initiatives. Student-athletes may be compensated by the Collective for their involvement, at no cost to the nonprofit, allowing organizations to benefit from their time and talent while supporting the athletes’ NIL opportunities.

Your contributions directly support student-athletes who are making a positive impact both on the field and in the Kenosha community. The Big Red Collective manages all funds in a secure account and works with local businesses and nonprofit organizations to create NIL opportunities. Student-athletes are compensated for their participation in activities such as advertisements, promotions, and community appearances.

The Big Red Collective partners with Opendorse, the leading athlete marketplace and NIL technology company, to ensure full compliance with NCAA regulations. Opendorse handles the reporting, tracking, and compliance of our NIL activities, supporting athletes throughout the entire process—from education and planning to measurement and disclosure.