DraftKings to Support New US Sports Betting Research Fund Led by RG

DraftKings has pledged to provide financial support to a new grant fund to support research into responsible gambling practices in sports betting in the United States.

The foundation, to be administered by the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG), is specifically focused on safer gaming, with the goal of developing peer-reviewed evidence-based research applications for RG activities across the sector.

“The cornerstone of our commitment to customers is to provide an enjoyable sports betting and gaming experience, and we recognize that we have a responsibility to ensure that customers play safely,” said DraftKings CEO Jason Robins.

“We are excited to support the important mission of the International Responsible Gaming Center and fund important research that will drive innovation in responsible gaming and customer safety across the industry.”

The Sports Betting Research Support Foundation, which is the first of its kind in the US, is accepting applications from researchers in three specific areas.

These include distinguishing between sports betting and other verticals, evaluating existing RG interventions and programs, and examining differences in prevalence and experience of gambling among specific demographics.

Applications from academic institutions and other groups can be submitted until September 2021, when they will be reviewed before the final recipient is selected by the ICRG's independent scientific advisory board.

The recipient winner will then be announced and funded for a three-year project ending in 2024, with research published either before or after that period.

The Research Foundation is open to US-based or international public, private, or non-profit organizations.

ICRG Executive Director Dr. Russell Sanna added: “With the spread of sports betting in the US, public health research will be critical to better understanding problem gaming, and we are deeply grateful to DraftKings for their support in funding cutting-edge and state-of-the-art research. can be used by the industry and consumers.”