Important Dates
Nominations open: June 8, 2026 at 8 a.m. EST
Applications open: June 8, 2026 at 8 a.m. EST
Nominations close: July 20, 2026 at 5 p.m. EST*
Applications close: July 20, 2026 at 5 p.m. EST
NCAA Legacy Lab:
Sept. 10-13, 2026
Indianapolis, IN
*Nominators, please ensure that you are giving your nominee(s) enough time to complete their application for the Legacy Lab. The nomination and application period both close on July 20.
The NCAA Legacy Lab helps Division I, II and III sophomore and junior student-athletes explore entrepreneurship while they are still competing. During this multi-day program, participants turn their skills, stories and ideas into sustainable ventures and choose one of three learning tracks:
- Brand in Motion: Explore how to monetize your name, image and likeness (NIL) responsibly and effectively
- Blueprint to Breakthrough: Learn the essentials of starting, operating and growing a business
- Built to Serve: Design ventures that prioritize social responsibility alongside profitability.
Division I, II and III sophomore or junior student-athletes in good academic standing.
This event is in-person only.
This event is a four-day experience.
If selected, the NCAA covers travel, lodging, meals and program materials during the program so learners can focus on gaining entrepreneurial skills without financial concern.
Why Participate?
Apply the discipline, resilience and teamwork developed in sport to entrepreneurial ventures.
Engage in interactive sessions and mentorship that build confidence and an entrepreneurial mindset.
Explore business ideas in a supportive environment designed for brainstorming and feedback.
Create a road map for potential ventures, including a plan or pitch to guide your entrepreneurial journey.
Strengthen your sense of purpose and motivation to build a meaningful legacy beyond athletics.
Transitioning from athletics to entrepreneurship requires more than a great idea. Legacy Lab gives student-athletes tools, mentorship and space to translate their competitive strengths into business and brand-building skills.
Eligibility
- Division I, II or III sophomore or junior student-athletes in good academic standing
- Nominations must be submitted through the NCAA Program Hub by a coach, director of operations, student-athlete development professional, academic advisor, senior woman administrator or compliance/athletics administrator listed in the NCAA Directory
- Once nominated, student-athletes complete the application in the NCAA Program Hub.
Student-athletes who believe they qualify should be sure to contact their athletic academic counselor or coach. They can confirm eligibility and help guide you through the nomination process.