OSKALOOSA, Iowa – June 3rd, 2025 – In a transformative move to elevate its digital footprint and expand national exposure, the Heart of America Athletic Conference (THE HEART) has entered into a groundbreaking media rights agreement with Urban Edge Network (UEN), designating UEN as “An Official Streaming Network Partner” of THE HEART.
The Heart of America is a perennial power conference in the NAIA, consisting of 15 member institutions and sponsoring 30 championship sports. With a history of success both on the field and in the classroom, THE HEART consistently ranks among the most competitive and well-rounded conferences in the association.
The five-year agreement is projected to generate seven figures in value, representing one of the most significant media rights deals in NAIA history. All games will continue to be streamed on The Heart Conference Network and will now also be available on the Urban Edge Network, expanding reach and accessibility. Both streaming platforms are available as apps on all major streaming devices, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and smart TVs—bringing Heart competition to homes across the country like never before.
The conference and UEN are partnering on the development and production of one-of-a-kind shows, while THE HEART simultaneously enhances its creative content strategy to promote The Heart Network and grow the conference’s already impressive social media reach, which currently exceeds 2.5 million unique impressions per month.
“This partnership is not just about streaming games—it’s about elevating the stories of our campuses, our students, and our mission,” said Nik Rule, Commissioner of the Heart of America Athletic Conference. “UEN brings unmatched expertise in media distribution and brand storytelling, and through this collaboration, we’re ensuring that the NAIA’s most competitive and compelling conference continues to lead in innovation and access.”
The Heart of America’s 28 championship sports include:
- Men’s Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Indoor Track & Field, Outdoor Track & Field, Volleyball, Wrestling
- Women’s Sports: Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Flag Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Indoor Track & Field, Outdoor Track & Field, Volleyball, Wrestling
- Co-ed/Other: Cheer, Dance, and Esports
The Heart of America’s 15 full member institutions include: Baker University, Benedictine College, Central Methodist University, Clarke University, Culver-Stockton College, Evangel University, Graceland University, Grand View University, MidAmerica Nazarene University, Missouri Valley College, Mount Mercy University, Peru State College, Park University, William Penn University, and William Woods University.
The conference is also home to to affiliate members competing in nine different sports, including:Columbia College (Mo), Dickinson State University (ND), Dordt University (IA), John Brown University (AR), Kansas Wesleyan, Midland University (NE), Morningside College (IA), Ottawa University (KS), St. Ambrose University (IA), Texas Wesleyan, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis, further enhancing the competitive landscape and reach of THE HEART across the Midwest and beyond.
The partnership runs through July 31, 2029, with automatic renewal options and provisions allowing THE HEART editorial control over branding use and final content approval.
For more information about THE HEART, visit www.heartofamericaconference.com. For details on Urban Edge Network, visit www.urbanedgenetwork.net.
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