Why is the NCAA able to offer so much more to its members than the NAIA?

Question

Hence, why has NAIA membership dwindled and NCAA membership increased over the last decade and a half?

Answer 1

Money! The NCAA has a lot more of it, and can use it to lure student-athletes. NCAA schools have more scholarships available per sport than NAIA schools and tend to be larger schools and programs. Some students like the money offered, and the glamour a larger program afforrds them.

Money talks, and people are listening!