Industry Insights: Exploring Facilities as a Strategic Asset for NIL and Revenue Growth - IAF 2025 · 11:56

As college athletics programs face growing demands and limited resources, facilities are emerging as a potential source of alternative revenue. During this session SSC will demonstrate how proactive maintenance, operational efficiency, and elevated facility standards can support student-athlete well-being, enhance fan experience, and create new opportunities for unrestricted NIL support. Administrators will gain insights into how rethinking fixed costs and leveraging campus infrastructure can contribute to long-term sustainability and competitive advantage. Seth Ferriell, Executive Chair, SSC Services for Education Jim Spencer, National Vice President, College Partnerships, SSC Services for Education ✅ Opening & Introduction 00:00 – Jim Spencer introduced; purpose of session: leveraging facilities as a strategic asset for NIL and revenue growth. ✅ Background & Context 00:58 – Jim shares personal background as athlete and coach; passion for higher education and athletics. ✅ Facilities as Revenue Drivers 01:55 – Overview of SSC Services and Compass Group; defining facilities scope (custodial, grounds, maintenance, vendor management). 02:59 – Importance of training, management, and career advancement for custodial staff to improve efficiency. ✅ Proactive vs. Reactive Maintenance 04:00 – Example: USF stadium project; need for NIL funding tied to fan experience and talent retention. 04:55 – Delivered a $50M unrestricted signing bonus through campus-wide solution. 05:54 – Discussion on deferred maintenance issues; reactive vs. proactive approach. 06:57 – Proactive methodology: facility condition assessments, asset tagging, capital planning. ✅ Operational Excellence & KPIs 08:26 – Example: Kyle Field retrofits; KPI-driven cleaning and maintenance standards; College GameDay praise for cleanliness. ✅ Revenue Generation & NIL 09:25 – How savings and operational efficiencies translate into 30–40% of operational budget returned as unrestricted signing bonus; funds can be used for NIL, upgrades, or maintenance. 10:23 – Facility upgrades enable hosting camps and events, creating recurring revenue streams. ✅ Closing Takeaways 11:07 – Two main points: Leverage facilities for incremental revenue and fan experience. Use unrestricted signing bonus for NIL or other priorities.

December 10, 2025