Key Takeaways:
- Learn how to legally use your name, image, and likeness (NIL) for promotions.
- Discover how to avoid legal problems in influencer marketing.
- Get expert advice on handling FTC guidelines and NCAA rules.
- Understand how trademarks and copyrights impact influencer agreements.
Experts Are Coming Together to Help You Navigate NIL Licensing
On March 18, 2025, some of the biggest names in intellectual property law will gather in New York to talk about a hot topic: how influencers and athletes can legally use their name, image, and likeness (NIL) for promotions.
The event is part of the I ♡ Trademarks Conference, held at 515 Madison Avenue in Manhattan. This all-day session, called “Under the Influencer: Avoiding Chaos for NIL on Social Media,” will focus on the growing legal challenges in the creator economy. Influencer marketing is booming, but it’s also getting more complicated. Trademark laws, FTC rules, and NCAA regulations are creating a tricky landscape.
Who’s Leading the Discussion?
Erica Rogers, a top trademark law expert from Ward and Smith, will moderate the panel. She’s a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Trademark Law, so she knows her stuff.
The panelists include:
- Shelley Fullwood of Olive & Olive. She ran the Trademark Clinic at North Carolina Central University and has deep experience in protecting brands.
- Kyona McGhee, founder of “Trademark My Stuff.” She’s filed thousands of trademark applications and knows how to safeguard your name and image.
- Michelle Miller, a business attorney who runs the Intellectual Property, Entertainment, & Entrepreneurship Clinic at Chicago-Kent College of Law. She’s worked with athletes, influencers, and small businesses.
What Will They Cover?
The session will be super practical. They’ll dive into real-life examples and hypothetical scenarios to show how influencers, athletes, and brands can avoid legal messes. Here’s what they’ll focus on:
1. Common Pitfalls in Influencer Marketing
Ever wondered what could go wrong when you partner with a brand? The panel will highlight mistakes to avoid, like using protected trademarks or not following FTC rules.
2. Managing NIL Licensing
From college athletes to social media influencers, NIL licensing is everywhere. The experts will explain how to handle it in both sports and non-sports contexts.
3. Navigating Rules and Regulations
They’ll break down how to follow FTC guidelines (like clearly marking sponsored posts) and NCAA rules (like what athletes can and can’t do).
4. Trademark and Copyright Concerns
Using someone else’s name, logo, or content without permission can land you in trouble. The panel will explain how to avoid this in influencer deals.
5. Strategies to Prevent Legal Problems
Instead of just talking about problems, they’ll offer solutions. Learn how to draft agreements, protect your brand, and stay out of legal trouble.
Why This Matters for You
If you’re an influencer, athlete, or business owner, understanding NIL licensing is crucial. It’s not just about posting sponsored content—it’s about protecting your brand and avoiding lawsuits.
The panel will also explore how universities and brands can work with influencers while staying compliant with the law. Whether you’re just starting out or have millions of followers, this session will have something for you.
More About the Conference
The I ♡ Trademarks Conference is a must-attend event for anyone in the trademark world. It includes:
- Five CLE (Continuing Legal Education) sessions.
- Networking opportunities with trademark professionals.
- Insights on the latest trends in intellectual property law.
The event runs from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on March 18, 2025.
Don’t Miss Out!
The Intersection of influencers, trademarks, and NIL licensing is a hot topic. With top attorneys sharing their expertise, this session is a goldmine for anyone looking to navigate the creator economy safely. Whether you’re a college athlete, influencer, or brand owner, you’ll leave with actionable tips to protect your name, image, and likeness.
Mark your calendar for March 18, 2025, and get ready to learn from the best in the business!
