BetMGM has given the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) a $180,000 grant to support the organization’s responsible gambling educations efforts. The funds will also aid the ICRG in its ongoing research regarding the potential link between advertising and problem gambling.
ICRG President Arthur Paikowsky called the grant a “historic contribution” that will allow the organization to conduct more productive evidence-based studies.
He commented: "We are pleased to accept this historic contribution from BetMGM. Findings from this evidence-based research study will allow us to better identify potential risks and guide best-practices for the gaming industry.
“We commend BetMGM for partnering with us to better inform the public, operators, regulators, legislators, and the media."
Responsible Gaming Senior Manager Richard Taylor described the partnership as an overall win and said responsible gambling education is vital to successful operations.
Taylor commented: "Investment into research around responsible gaming is key to our continued education and commitment to providing best-in-class experiences and programs, as well as to ensuring a sustainable industry.
“This groundbreaking research will not only provide valuable learnings to BetMGM but will also serve as a guide for the industry and key stakeholders."
Responsible gaming has remained a company focus throughout the years. BetMGM, along with its parent company MGM Resorts, recently joined the American Gaming Association and became official partners of its “Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly” campaign.
Throughout its social media platforms, the company offered players tips and educational resources regarding responsible gambling during September’s Responsible Gaming Education Month.
The company provides resources to help customers play responsibly through its ongoing partnership with GameSense, a responsible gaming program first developed and licensed in 2017 by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) to MGM Resorts.
BetMGM also recently sponsored the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey's annual conference in West Windsor, New Jersey.
However, several sportsbooks have utilized collegiate spaces to advertise sports wagering products, raising the question of whether these methods are ethical. To read more about sportsbook advertising on college campuses, click here.
Is there a question to be asked about the timing of BetMGM's announcement, given the recent national coverage of operators and their college programs?
