Aaron Donald Foundation Launches “Team Donald” NIL Mentorship & College Transition Program
Los Angeles, California – May 11, 2026 – The Aaron Donald 99 Foundation, in collaboration with Athletes First and Morgan Stanley Global Sports & Entertainment, today announced the launch of a year-long NIL Mentorship & College Transition Program designed to support graduating high school seniors as they prepare to enter collegiate athletics. The program will select four graduating high school seniors committed to competing in college sports and provide them with financial support, NIL education, mentorship, and professional development resources to help navigate today’s evolving collegiate landscape with confidence, integrity, and long-term success.
“Transitioning from high school to college athletics comes with a lot of new opportunities and responsibilities,” said Aaron Donald. “I want these student athletes to feel prepared and supported as they begin this next chapter. Team Donald NIL Program is about giving young athletes the knowledge, mentorship, and resources they need to succeed both on and off the field.”
“We’re proud to partner with the Aaron Donald 99 Foundation on a program that provides real structure and guidance during one of the most important transitions in a young athlete’s life,” said Todd France of Athletes First. “Team Donald NIL Program is about preparing student-athletes not just for college athletics, but for long-term success in every area of their lives.”
“Student-athletes are experiencing a new era of opportunity and with that comes the need for guidance, practical education, and a strong support system,” said Sandra Richards, Managing Director, Head of Global Sports & Entertainment and Segment Sales & Engagement at Morgan Stanley. “Through Team Donald NIL Program, we’re proud to support the Aaron Donald Foundation and help these graduating seniors build financial fundamentals and develop the confidence to make thoughtful financial decisions as they transition to college athletics and beyond.”
Created to address the growing need for structure, education, and trusted guidance surrounding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, the Team Donald NIL Program will connect participants with industry experts and experienced advisors. The program is designed to equip student athletes with the knowledge, resources, and support needed to achieve long-term success both on and off the field.
Program Overview
The Team Donald NIL Program is a mentorship and NIL education initiative focused on helping graduating high school seniors successfully transition into college athletics. Participants will receive guidance on NIL, personal branding, brand partnerships, financial education, and professional insights as they prepare to navigate the evolving collegiate sports landscape.
The program also includes:
- Small-group mentorship sessions with Aaron Donald
- Q&A discussions with professional athletes
- Access to agents, executives, and business leaders
- Financial education, training by Morgan Stanley Global Sports & Entertainment including budgeting, and long-term planning
- Media training and content development support
Each selected athlete will receive a Foundation-backed grant to assist with academic expenses, training, performance needs, and brand-building resources. All support and programming will remain NIL- and compliance-appropriate.
Eligibility & Selection
Applicants must:
- Be graduating high school seniors entering college in Fall 2026
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Be committed to participating in college athletics
- Demonstrate leadership and community involvement
- Commit to completing all workshops and mentorship sessions
Applicants will be required to submit:
- A completed application
- Short essay responses
- A personal statement
- An explanation of how the grant would support their transition to college athletics
Four students will be selected by a committee representing the Aaron Donald Foundation. Applications for the Team Donald NIL Program open May 11, 2026, and close June 11, 2026. Final decisions for applicants will be announced on June 19, 2026.
About the Aaron Donald Foundation
The Aaron Donald 99 Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering youth from underserved communities by supporting educational, arts, and athletic initiatives that foster growth, opportunity, and long-term success. For more information, interviews, or media inquiries, please contact [email protected].