The Athlete Influencer Era: Navigating NIL with Support That Wins

Why NIL Success Is More Complex and More Empowering Than It Looks

NIL didn’t just change the rules; it opened the door to something new. Just look at Paige Bueckers, who made her WNBA debut this week. Though her team may have taken a loss, her journey is a reminder that NIL isn’t just a short-term win; it’s a springboard to a long-term career. 

Today’s college athletes aren’t just preparing for game day. They’re building personal brands, creating content, pitching deals, and learning how to turn influence into impact.

The opportunity is real. So are the challenges.

At Chisos, we see NIL as a launchpad. It gives athletes the chance to grow something lasting: a business, a voice, a platform, even before they go pro. But making the most of it takes more than raw talent. It takes structure, strategy, and the right kind of support.

Whether you're an athlete, creator, or founder, the parallels are clear. The journey is ambitious, and the right backing can make all the difference.

NIL Is an Opportunity That Demands Full-Time Commitments

Student-athletes already juggle school, training, and competition. NIL adds another dimension: brand building. From content calendars to pitch decks, influencer partnerships to social media strategy, this isn’t a side hustle. It’s a second career.

And for many, it’s a career with huge potential but no upfront paycheck.

Athletes Are Entering the Creator Economy, and That’s a Good Thing

Top athletes are no longer just performing in games. They’re storytellers, editors, strategists, and marketers. They’re posting reels, filming behind-the-scenes footage, and negotiating with sponsors. It takes time, vision, and the right gear.

This isn’t a problem. It’s progress. But most athletes are trying to build a business with limited tools and little financial cushion.

NIL Money Exists, but in Many Cases it’s not FREE money

The headlines often focus on big-dollar deals. But most NIL agreements offer modest returns, especially after accounting for real costs: production equipment, editing software, lighting, travel, and the time needed to keep content consistent.

According to NCAA data published by Sports Illustrated, the vast majority of NIL deals fall below public perception, with many student-athletes earning far less than expected.¹ Brands expect polish and consistency. That means athletes need more than a phone and a dream. They need infrastructure.

Yes, NIL access Is Uneven, but It’s Still an Unmatched Opportunity

It’s true. The current NIL landscape favors a small percentage of athletes, particularly those in high-visibility sports. But social media has become a great equalizer, allowing athletes from any background or sport, including many female athletes, to carve out meaningful monetization paths. NIL isn't broken. It’s evolving. The opportunity is there for those ready to seize it with the right plan and the right partner.

What Makes the Difference? Flexible, Strategic Support

To win in this new landscape, athletes need more than momentum. They need capital that works with them, not against them.

That’s where opportunity capital comes in: flexible, athlete-aligned funding designed to support your growth.

At Chisos, we provide early-stage funding that’s fast, flexible, and aligned with your future. Our unique structure combines income-based repayment with a small upside component, giving you access to the funding now without the pressure of fixed debt or giving up major ownership. It grows with you, so you can create, invest, and pursue big opportunities on your terms.

From Athlete to Entrepreneur

NIL is helping athletes think like business founders, and that’s a powerful shift.

To thrive in this new space, you need more than a viral video. You need a content strategy, the tools to execute it, and a funding partner who understands the journey.

Athletes deserve to build real platforms, not just personal brands. Chisos is here to help make that possible.

Why Choose Chisos

We invest in people, not just portfolios. Chisos offers upfront capital for what matters most: better gear, consistent production, travel to meet sponsors, and the space to grow.

You stay in control. Our flexible capital includes income-based repayment and a small equity element, designed to back your journey, not dictate it.

You'll be part of a community of creators, founders, and athletes who are building bold things together.

We’re not just here to fund your next post. We’re here to help you build momentum that lasts.

You don’t have to choose between being an athlete and being a business. You can be both, and Chisos is here to help you do it your way.

We’re ready to back your growth with flexible capital and a community of support.

‍Apply now and take your NIL journey to the next level.