
Number 145

Image source: Sportico/ Lorenzo Gordon
'Two Bits Creative' Launches to Help Journalism Students and Student-Athletes in NIL Era

Featured Focus:
Education, Entrepreneurship, and Partnerships for Good

Scope of Impact:
Local

Scouting Report: A new partnership in Gainesville is innovating how NIL is being approached on campus. Here’s what you should know:
A student-led creative agency: Florida Victorious, the official NIL partner of the Florida Gators, has teamed up with the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications (UFCJC) to launch "Two Bits Creative." This agency will be run by students, for student-athletes.
Real-world experience: The program gives journalism and communications students hands-on experience in the burgeoning NIL space. They'll work on real campaigns, building their portfolios while helping student-athletes build their brands.
A WIN | WIN for everyone: Student-athletes get professional help with their branding and NIL obligations, and the students get invaluable, real-world experience. The university gets a cutting-edge program that sets a new standard for collaboration between athletics and academics.

This is more than just another NIL deal; it's a blueprint for the future of college sports. By embedding a student-led creative agency within the journalism school, the University of Florida is creating a powerful ecosystem for learning and growth. It's a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of academics and athletics. This initiative goes beyond simply providing financial support to athletes; it's about empowering them with the tools and knowledge to build sustainable careers. At the same time, it's giving aspiring journalists and marketers a real-world laboratory to hone their skills. This is a model that other universities can and should replicate. It's a true commitment to impact, one that will pay dividends for years to come.