SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Swedish gambling operator Svenska Spel has confirmed a further SEK5m will be committed in grants this year to fund a range of research projects targeting problem gambling.
Those applying for grants can apply until 30 April to submit an application for funding from the 2020 round, which will be overseen by Svenska Spel’s Research Council and the Swedish Central Association for Alcohol and Drug Information (CAN).
The Research Council, established in 2010, seeks to boost the understanding of problem gambling behaviours and the development of prevention initiatives. It has been commissioned to assess and grant applications for research funding based on scientific quality and societal relevance.
The grants awarded by Svenska Spel can be used to support research projects looking into addiction, preventative measures against problem gambling associated behaviours, gaming responsibilities, as well as risk and protective factors.
The funding scheme has been in operation since 2010, with the operator awarding SEK5m in grants every year.
In November, the operator strengthened its commitment to youth sports across Sweden after donating more than SEK50m (£4m) as part of its Gräsroten initiative.
The donation marked the seventh consecutive year that the operator has supported grassroots sports across the country, with football having received the most money. In total, over half a million Swedes have distributed the money to 8,556 associations across 71 sports.
