How an outside idea reaches a company, in its own words · checked 2026-10-29
How to sell an idea to Nike
Does not take outside ideas
Nike says it typically does not review ideas it did not ask for, and anything sent is Nike’s to use without pay or credit. What it buys from outside is brands: Converse and the virtual sneaker studio RTFKT.
“We typically do not review unsolicited suggestions, ideas, feedback, or other materials that you post, submit, or otherwise communicate to us about NIKE or our Services, Products, or Experiences (collectively, “Feedback”).”
What you agree to by sending something
“However, any Feedback you send us is provided on a non-confidential basis and you grant NIKE and its subsidiaries and affiliates a license to use such Feedback for any purpose, commercial or otherwise, without compensation or acknowledgement to you, including, but not limited to, for the purpose of developing, manufacturing, and marketing products and services.”
What it has bought from outside
2003
Converse from Converse Inc. US$ 309 million
“In July 2003, Nike paid US$ 309 million to acquire Converse. [ 3 ] [ 26 ] In January 2013, Converse announced plans for a new headquarters building.” en.wikipedia.org
2021
RTFKT (virtual sneakers and collectibles) from Benoit Pagotto, Chris Le and Steven Vasilev
“In December 2021, Nike has acquired RTFKT, a leading brand that leverages cutting edge innovation to deliver next generation collectibles that merge culture and gaming.” about.nike.com
Other companies that take an invention or product idea
