Photo by: Chase Mathers (Instagram- @mathers.media)
Indiana Wesleyan University Athletics announced a new multiyear partnership with Urban Edge Network (UEN) that will significantly expand streaming opportunities for Wildcat sports and increase the program’s national visibility.
The partnership arose from a shared vision between IWU and UEN to modernize media access for NAIA athletics and create greater exposure for student-athletes. University officials cited months of collaboration and planning as both organizations sought an innovative way to connect IWU athletics with a broader audience while maintaining accessibility and affordability for fans.
Under the agreement, Urban Edge Network becomes the exclusive video streaming partner for all IWU athletic programs. All Wildcat athletic events will be streamed live and available on
demand for free across UEN’s digital platforms, marking a major shift from previous partnerships that often limited access behind paywalls or offered inconsistent coverage.
University President Jon Kulaga said during the press release, the partnership reflects IWU’s commitment to innovation and student-centered opportunity.
“By making Wildcat Athletics more accessible through a free, high-quality streaming platform, we are extending the IWU experience beyond campus and strengthening connections with families, alumni, and supporters around the world,” Kulaga said.
What sets this partnership apart from past agreements is its scale and scope. The seven-figure deal is the largest media rights contract for a single NAIA institution and includes not only streaming rights but also branding integration and advanced digital distribution.
Beginning this spring, IWU athletes will wear UEN anniversary logo patches on their uniforms, symbolizing the collaborative nature of the partnership.
Jeffrey Reyes, IWU’s associate athletic director for external operations, described the deal as a milestone for the university and the NAIA.
“We’re proud to be trailblazers, setting a new standard for the NAIA and making a national impact through innovation and collaboration,” Reyes said.
Following the implementation of the partnership, IWU expects several long-term benefits. Increased visibility is expected to enhance recruiting efforts, expand sponsorship opportunities, and strengthen fan engagement. The deal also creates new investment opportunities within the athletic department, allowing seven programs to hire full-time assistant coaches for the first time.
Brian Jaworski, vice president of student development and athletics, emphasized the importance of accessibility for families and supporters.
“This creates a wider opportunity for people to view IWU for the first time and see how our teams pursue excellence and influence others,” Jaworski said.
In addition to live streaming, UEN’s expanding national distribution network places IWU athletics on premium digital platforms typically reserved for larger conferences. This increased exposure is expected to support the long-term sustainability of IWU athletics and further elevate the profile of NAIA programs nationwide.
As the partnership moves forward, IWU officials say the collaboration reinforces the university’s mission to combine innovation, faith, and athletic excellence while providing student-athletes with opportunities to compete on a larger stage.
