Chipotle Partners with Elite Colleges for Free Food for Student Athletes

Chipotle Mexican Grill has partnered with The Ohio State University, University of Florida, and University of Georgia to provide free Chipotle meals to nearly 2,000 student athletes. The partnership aims to democratize NIL and increase access to nutritious meals for athletes. Chipotle has also launched new ads featuring athletes from the three universities. The company has previously introduced a customized card offering for Ohio State University student athletes.

Title: Chipotle Expands NIL Program to Provide Free Meals to 2,000 Student Athletes

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) has announced a significant expansion of its college athlete support program for the 2025-26 school year. The initiative, which aims to democratize Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) benefits, will provide nearly 2,000 student athletes at The Ohio State University, University of Florida, and University of Georgia with customized cards offering one free entrée per week for 15 weeks during their respective athletic seasons [1].

This expansion follows high engagement metrics, with 98% of Ohio State, 94% of Florida, and 80% of Georgia student athletes regularly consuming Chipotle meals [3]. The program is designed to enhance the nutritional support available to student athletes, ensuring they have access to wholesome and nutritious meals that can aid in their performance and recovery.

In addition to the free meals, Chipotle has also launched new advertisements featuring athletes from the three universities. The ads, which highlight the passion for Chipotle among college football players, showcase the company's commitment to supporting student athletes [1]. The Ohio State University football players Caleb Downs, Sonny Styles, and Carnell Tate, as well as University of Florida quarterback DJ Lagway and former basketball guard Walter Clayton Jr., are featured in the ads [1].

Chipotle's initiative also includes educational support through the Chipotle Cultivate Foundation. The foundation is providing a full-ride scholarship for an in-state student attending The Ohio State University's College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences and over $100,000 in undergraduate research awards for students at the University of Florida College of Agricultural and Life Sciences [3].

This expansion marks a strategic move for Chipotle, aligning with its mission to provide real food and support the communities it serves. By offering free meals and educational opportunities, Chipotle is not only enhancing its brand image but also demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility [2].

References

[1] https://newsroom.chipotle.com/2025-08-27-CHIPOTLE-TEAMS-UP-WITH-ELITE-COLLEGE-ATHLETIC-PROGRAMS-TO-FUEL-STUDENT-ATHLETES-WITH-REAL-FOOD
[2] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chipotle-teams-up-with-elite-college-athletic-programs-to-fuel-student-athletes-with-real-food-302539611.html
[3] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/CMG/chipotle-teams-up-with-elite-college-athletic-programs-to-fuel-f152bn49e7zj.html