Do Colleges Get Money for Bowl Games?

College bowl games have been a staple of the college football season for decades. These games are not just about the competition on the field; they also bring in significant revenue for the participating colleges. But how exactly do colleges benefit financially from bowl games? Let’s delve into the details.

Understanding Bowl Game Revenue

Bowl games generate revenue through various sources, and a portion of this revenue is indeed shared with the participating colleges. Here’s a breakdown of how the money is made and distributed:

Revenue Source	Description
Tickets Sales	One of the primary sources of revenue, ticket sales cover the costs of the game itself and provide a significant income for the bowl organization.
TV Rights	Bowl games are broadcasted on television, and the rights to air these games bring in substantial revenue.
Merchandise Sales	Branding and merchandise sales, including apparel, souvenirs, and other memorabilia, contribute to the bowl’s revenue.
Corporate Sponsorship	Corporate sponsors provide funding in exchange for advertising and promotional opportunities during the bowl game.
Concessions	Food and beverage sales at the game also contribute to the bowl’s revenue.

These sources of revenue are pooled together, and a portion is allocated to the participating colleges. The exact amount varies depending on the bowl game and its specific revenue-sharing agreement.

Revenue Sharing Agreements

The distribution of bowl game revenue among the participating colleges is governed by the bowl’s revenue-sharing agreement. These agreements can vary widely, and the terms are often negotiated between the bowl organization and the colleges involved.

Some bowls have a more equitable distribution system, where the revenue is divided equally among the teams. Others may allocate a larger share to the winning team or the team with a higher ranking. Additionally, bowl games may have different revenue-sharing models for teams from different conferences or divisions.

For example, the Fiesta Bowl has a revenue-sharing agreement that provides a flat fee to each participating team, regardless of the outcome. In contrast, the Rose Bowl has a more complex system that takes into account the teams’ rankings and conference affiliations.

Benefits for Participating Colleges

While the financial benefits of bowl games can vary, participating colleges typically receive several advantages:

• Increased Exposure: Bowl games provide a platform for colleges to showcase their programs and attract prospective students, donors, and alumni.

• Revenue Sharing: As mentioned earlier, colleges receive a portion of the bowl game’s revenue, which can be used for various purposes, including scholarships and program enhancements.

• Travel Expenses: Bowl games often cover the travel expenses for the participating teams, including transportation, lodging, and meals.

• Community Engagement: Bowl games can boost local economies and foster community pride.

Conclusion

In conclusion, colleges do receive money for bowl games, but the amount and distribution of this revenue can vary significantly. The financial benefits of bowl games are just one aspect of the overall value these events bring to participating colleges. From increased exposure to community engagement, bowl games offer a range of advantages that extend beyond the field of play.