Frequently Asked Questions
Athlete Questions
What does it mean to be a HERA athlete?
Being a HERA athlete means joining a network of driven, talented, and community-minded female competitors who want to turn their influence into opportunity. HERA athletes are more than players — they’re storytellers, leaders, and brand builders who represent the future of women’s sports.
Do I have to be a college athlete to join?
No. HERA works with athletes at all levels — high school, collegiate, and post-grad — as long as they show potential, purpose, and presence. We’re especially focused on emerging local talent with a strong connection to their community.
How does HERA help me get brand deals?
We actively connect you with local businesses that align with your story, sport, and values. Our team negotiates sponsorships, creates content, and manages deliverables so you can focus on your game. We also provide guidance on brand strategy and NIL compliance.
Do I need to have a large social media following?
No. HERA looks for authenticity, not just numbers. We help you grow your digital presence with professional content, storytelling support, and real brand collaborations that feel true to who you are.
Will it cost me anything to join and be a HERA Athlete?
No, there’s no cost to join. HERA invests in your story and your growth. We cover the production, marketing, and management costs associated with your participation. You’ll never be asked to pay upfront fees — your success is our shared investment.
How does HERA make money, and how do I get paid?
We generate revenue through brand partnerships, sponsorships, and merchandise collaborations. Each deal is transparent — you always know what you’re earning and how the split works. HERA typically takes a small commission to manage production and marketing, and you receive direct payments for your participation.
How does HERA distribute the content we make together?
HERA publishes across multiple platforms — including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and X — to maximize reach and visibility. Every post that features you will be a collaborative post, meaning it’s shared both on HERA’s channels and yours, giving you equal exposure and shared audience growth. We also feature top stories on our website and in brand partner campaigns.
Can I work with other sponsors outside of HERA?
Yes. You’re free to pursue other NIL opportunities, as long as they don’t conflict with existing HERA brand agreements. We encourage your growth and will even help advise on external deals if you want our guidance.
What kind of content will I be featured in?
You might appear in athlete features, behind-the-scenes stories, short-form reels, or branded collaborations — depending on your sport and the partner campaigns running at that time. Every piece is designed to highlight your athletic journey and your personal voice.
How much time or commitment does it require?
We know your sport and studies come first. Most collaborations take only a few hours per month. You’ll have full visibility on timelines before you commit to any project.
How do I apply to join?
Athletes can apply directly through the HERA Sports Network website. We review each submission carefully — focusing on your story, energy, and commitment — not just stats. Selected athletes will be invited to an onboarding call where we introduce the team, discuss opportunities, and start planning your first feature.
Local Brand Partner Questions
How does partnering with HERA benefit my business?
HERA helps local businesses connect authentically with their community through the stories of local athletes. By sponsoring or collaborating with athletes, your business gains brand visibility, local goodwill, and access to an engaged audience that values community support and women’s sports.
What kinds of sponsorships are available?
We offer flexible tiers ranging from one-time collaborations to ongoing partnerships. Options include social media sponsorships, athlete features, event activations, and co-branded merchandise. Each program is customized to fit your marketing goals and budget.
How do I choose which athlete(s) to support?
You can select from our roster based on location, sport, or shared values. Our team helps you match with athletes whose audiences and stories best align with your business. We can also suggest athletes who are rising voices in your community.
Can I promote my business through HERA content?
Yes. Partner content is featured on both HERA and athlete channels as collaborative posts, reaching audiences across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X. You’ll also receive shareable assets to use on your own social accounts or website.
What’s the cost to get involved?
Our sponsorships start at accessible price points for small businesses, with scalable packages for larger partners. Pricing depends on campaign length, deliverables, and production scope — we’ll walk you through all options before you commit.
Is this NIL compliant?
Absolutely. HERA operates fully within NCAA and state NIL guidelines. We handle all contracts and disclosures to protect both the athlete and your business.
Can small businesses participate, or is it only for big brands?
HERA was built for local business participation. Whether you’re a family-owned shop or a regional chain, we make it easy to join the movement and see results through community-based storytelling.
What kind of exposure will my business get?
Your brand will be featured across athlete and HERA channels through collaborative posts, branded mentions, and highlight content. Depending on your tier, your logo or business name may also appear in web features, community events, and co-branded campaigns.
How does revenue sharing work?
Each campaign has a clear agreement outlining how funds are distributed between the athlete, HERA, and your business deliverables. We prioritize transparency — you’ll know exactly what your investment supports and the reach you’re getting in return.
How do I get started?
Reach out through our website’s Contact or Partner form. Once you share your goals and budget, our team will design a custom partnership package and introduce you to your first athlete match.