Welcome to the Go Zips Exchange
Connect and work with athletes from
University of Akron
Register Now
What is the Go Zips Exchange?
The Go Zips Exchange is a student-athlete NIL business registry, custom-designed for businesses, donors, alumni, and any other interested NIL dollars wishing to connect with student-athletes. Registered businesses can search, filter and initiate conversations with your student-athletes to discuss an NIL deal. Once the NIL deal between a registered business and your student-athlete is completed, the business will use the Go Zips Exchange to create a transaction that will produce a direct payment to the student-athlete and automate a disclosure to the INFLCR Verified Compliance Ledger. The institution does not have to get involved in the deal and all transactions within the local exchange are consolidated into one 1099 at the end of the year for easier tax reporting purposes for registered businesses and athletes.
FAQs:
What is Name, Image & Likeness?
As of July 1, 2021, student-athletes competing in NCAA intercollegiate athletics are permitted to receive compensation for the use of their name, image or likeness (NIL) for commercial activities, including endorsements through traditional and social media, appearances, entrepreneurial activities, in-kind deals, autographs and more, in accordance with NCAA guidelines and the University of Akron NIL protocols.
Does the state of Ohio have an NIL Policy?
Yes, Ohio Executive Order 2021-10D.
Can a University employee or coach help arrange a deal for an athlete?
No. University employees, including coaches and members of the athletics department, CANNOT negotiate deals or contracts. However, they can direct student-athletes to NIL-related opportunities on the "Go Zips Exchange."
Does the school or INFLCR take any revenue from NIL transactions in the Local Exchange?
No.
Do you have to be an official university licensee to register?
No, but businesses will not be permitted to use university marks without permission. Contact Seth McFall (smcfall@uakron.edu) for more information.
Who approves your request to register?
Typically, compliance officers designated by the institution. If you have any questions about your approval, contact Jackie Wallgren, jwallgren@uakron.edu.
When can I start contacting athletes and processing payments?
After being approved by the school, you will be able to contact athletes and process payments.