Explore how Spain, Denmark, and the US are investing more in responsible gambling research to protect players and promote safer gambling.
The movement towards responsible gaming isn’t new, but it has gained significant momentum in the iGaming industry worldwide.
More and more regulators and industry leaders are investing millions in key initiatives, research, preventative and educational measures, all to keep the vulnerable safe.
Some of the most recent focus points include Spain, Denmark, and the US , which are making more effort to create a more secure gaming environment where players are protected and know how to play responsibly .
Spain’s €1 million research grant scheme for 2025
The Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ) has recently launched a €1.05 million research grant dedicated to responsible gaming initiatives. Both public and private research institutions have been invited to apply as they explore solutions that can lessen gambling harm, especially among at-risk individuals and minors .
This is not the first time such a grant has been offered—the initiative started in 2023. The grant aims to find projects that focus on data-driven methodologies, prevention strategies, and technological innovation . This way, the government shows its priorities lie not just in reducing gambling-related harm but also in promoting transparency and accountability within the regulated gambling market.
The DGOJ stated that all proposals must contribute to the goals outlined in Spain’s gambling regulations and Responsible Gambling Strategy, focusing on long-term policy reform and behavioural insights .
Denmark sustains its multi-year investment in prevention
At this moment, Denmark can pride itself on one of the lowest reported rates of gambling disorder (0.67%) worldwide. Generally, Danish online casinos and betting platforms are considered pretty safe. Still, the country is on a mission to source more and more solutions for responsible gambling and strengthen its protection.
In 2022, the Danish government allocated DKK 10 million (approximately €1.3 million) for RG initiatives from 2023 to 2025. The funding goes into research, awareness campaigns and support programs focused on minors, families, and vulnerable groups.
According to the Danish Gambling Authority , they are collaborating with mental health professionals, researchers, and educational institutions to create content that can inform the public about the risks of gambling addiction. One of the core components of the campaign is public service announcements and school-based interventions.
Some of the more recent updates show that the program is placing more focus on evaluating the effectiveness of current self-exclusion tools, early detection algorithms and preventing compulsive gambling behaviours with digital nudges.
US steps up with research funding
The leading operators in the United States are increasing their contributions to responsible gambling research. Recently, Caesars Entertainment made a $200,000 donation to the International Centre for Responsible Gaming (ICRG).
ICRG is a non-profit organisation focused on doing scientific research on gambling disorders. The funds are channelled into ongoing studies on gambling addiction, early intervention and the digital harms linked to online betting.
Heather Rapp , SVP of Corporate Social Responsibility at Caesars, said that research is essential to building safe gaming environments . And their support can only aid in ensuring the gaming industry is ‘guided by the best available science’.
It’s a great move from Caesars Entertainment, considering that US gambling regulations are currently tightening rules regarding responsible gaming tools and advertising, as online sports betting is quickly spreading through the states.
New AI-powered responsible gambling hub launch
AI has also become an important part of the latest RG initiatives. The Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) is one of the founding members of the new Responsible Gaming Hub . The latter is an AI-driven initiative specifically created to advance safer gambling practices.
The Hub utilises machine learning and data to identify early signs of risky gaming behaviour, enhances real-time monitoring, and provides personalised player intervention . This platform is developed in collaboration with addiction specialists, regulatory authorities and academics. On top of that, its founding members are committed to ethical data use and transparent reporting.
According to a ROGA spokesperson, AI tools can revolutionise responsible gaming by providing tailored interventions based on real-world behaviour rather than assumptions. The idea is to create smarter, faster responses to address and help manage risks.
Still, one has to be aware of the dangers AI poses to modern gambling . But if used consciously and responsibly, AI could undoubtedly become key to helping with problem gaming issues and better protecting players .