Yes, NCAA Division II and Division III athletes can pursue NIL opportunities within the requirements that apply to them. Start with your division and campus guidance rather than assuming every rule discussed in Division I news applies to your situation. The NCAA maintains separate Division II and Division III policy resources.
Start with your actual community
Write down the people who already follow your story: family, former teammates, a hometown club, campus supporters or a local sports community. This is a planning exercise, not a claim that everyone on the list will buy merchandise or attract a sponsor.
A useful first offer might be a personal merchandise collection, a short brand-content project or a clearly defined appearance. Choose something that fits your schedule and that you can describe in concrete terms.
A practical Division II example
Imagine a swimmer proposing a short off-deck interview and two original portraits to a local business. The pitch identifies the audience, delivery date and intended use of the images. It does not promise race results, unlimited use of the athlete's image or access to team facilities. This is an illustrative campaign, not a report of an actual deal.
A practical Division III example
Imagine a volleyball player introducing a personal design to hometown and campus supporters. The athlete explains the story, links directly to the collection and answers product questions. The first review focuses on whether people found the store and understood the design, rather than comparing the launch with a celebrity athlete's income.
Questions for your campus contact
- Which current campus and division requirements apply?
- What should I submit before signing or publishing?
- Can this design include school marks or a uniform?
- Are there sponsor-category or facility restrictions?
- What changes if I transfer, graduate or compete through another organization?
The NCAA's current NIL page includes reporting guidance for athletes moving into Division I. If a transfer is relevant, check that guidance early and discuss your own timeline with compliance staff. Review the NCAA NIL resources.
NAIA and junior-college athletes
Do not use a D2/D3 guide as a substitute for your own association's requirements. The NAIA NIL resource is a separate starting point. Junior-college athletes should obtain current association and campus guidance, including any requirements relevant to a later transfer.
A small first-campaign worksheet
Write down one audience, one idea, the assets you can produce, the people who must approve them and the outcome you will measure. A complete one-page plan is a useful first step even before you have a sponsor or live store.