MGM Resorts and BetMGM Allocate $320,000 to Responsible Gaming Research
MGM Resorts International and BetMGM renew their support for the American Gaming Association during RGEM 2026, funding research and expanding prevention programs.
Key Takeaways
- MGM Resorts and BetMGM allocate $320,000 to responsible gaming initiatives during RGEM 2026.
- The funding includes research, support for state councils, and the expansion of the GameSense program.
- Over 3,000 employees have received training as GameSense Advisors across more than 45 departments.
- The GameSense program amplifies its presence in NFL, MLB stadiums, and Las Vegas arenas.
- September campaigns prioritize prevention in both digital and physical media, backed by the AGA.
MGM Resorts International and BetMGM have announced a joint contribution of $320,000 directed towards responsible gaming initiatives, reinforcing their collaboration with the American Gaming Association (AGA) during Responsible Gaming Education Month (RGEM 2026), which will take place throughout September. The commitment includes research, employee training, and an increased outreach of their preventive messages in sports venues and digital platforms.
Financial Contribution for Research and Partnerships
The $320,000 contribution from MGM Resorts and BetMGM will support two specific lines: funding for the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) and the expansion of partnerships with state problem gambling councils in the United States, including support for the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline. The package also included a donation to the Evive Foundation, an organization that provides evidence-based digital tools and peer support to individuals affected by gambling.
These actions aim to diversify the impact of the investment beyond academic research, including direct intervention activities. The participation of multiple state councils enhances visibility in regions with differing policies and needs, aligned with the AGA's national strategy on responsible gaming.
Responsible Gaming and GameSense in Sports Venues
The GameSense program, licensed to MGM Resorts by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) since 2017, plays a central role in the prevention strategy. GameSense promotes positive and proactive gaming experiences through clear interaction about risks and best practices. In September, GameSense messages will continue in NFL stadiums and MLB parks, adding NHL and WNBA arenas in Las Vegas. These messages will be displayed on LED ribbons and main screens before games, aimed at both in-person gamblers and venue visitors.
"Player protection is a daily priority at BetMGM, and RGEM allows us to highlight this work. With GameSense messages in sports venues, employee training, and investments in research and support services, we facilitate access for players to resources for informed decisions," stated Rhea Loney, compliance director at BetMGM.
Responsible Gaming Training: Scope and Evolution
MGM Resorts and BetMGM maintain mandatory responsible gaming training for all their staff. To date, over 3,000 employees have received certification as GameSense Advisors, including staff from more than 45 departments within the company, spanning both gaming and traditional hospitality areas.
"Reaching 3,000 GameSense Advisors reflects our employees' willingness to take an active role in promoting responsible gaming. This collective commitment expands the reach of our program across the company," noted Stephen Martino, SVP and compliance director of MGM Resorts International.
Communication Strategies and Digital Outreach
During September, RGEM and GameSense messages will reach customers and employees through digital platforms, in-person sportsbooks, and the MGM Grand Live Dealer studio. BetMGM Sportsbook messages, for example, encourage users to "take a breather," providing QR codes to access additional tips and resources.
In Las Vegas, MGM Resorts' ad network will also project campaigns from the AGA and GameSense with recommendations for gamblers to "play smart from the start." Rob Lockwood, senior vice president of strategic communications at the American Gaming Association, stated:
"Responsible gaming has a greater impact when the industry collaborates, as in 'Play Smart from the Start.' Our partnership with MGM Resorts and BetMGM keeps these messages visible and supports research and programs that can make a difference."
Impact and Projection of Commitment in the Sector
Overall, the actions of MGM Resorts and BetMGM for RGEM 2026 bring together funding, training, and communication focused on various channels. The strategies encompass both scientific research and direct intervention and mass awareness, aiming to improve responsible gaming indicators among customers and employees in the sector.
The integration of GameSense at various touchpoints, from digital sportsbooks to sports venues and urban billboards, aims to consolidate a user experience where prevention is integrated into commercial and entertainment offerings. The AGA considers these partnerships a replicable model for the industry in the United States and other markets, an approach that will be subject to follow-up in event and news coverage within the iGaming ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the contribution amount from MGM Resorts and BetMGM for responsible gaming in 2026?
The contribution is $320,000 and covers research, support for foundations and state councils, as well as preventive communication across various channels.
What is the GameSense program and who implements it?
GameSense is a responsible gaming prevention and education program, licensed by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation and adopted by MGM Resorts since 2017 as a core of its preventive actions.
How many employees have completed the GameSense Advisor training?
Over 3,000 employees from MGM Resorts and BetMGM have been certified, covering more than 45 functional areas within the organization.
What communication campaigns will take place during RGEM 2026?
During September, messages will be disseminated in sportsbooks, digital platforms, and sports venues, incorporating recommendations for responsible betting and links to additional resources via QR codes.
Which organizations receive direct support besides the International Center for Responsible Gaming?
The Evive Foundation and multiple state councils on problem gambling, as well as the helpline 1-800-GAMBLER, are among the recipients of the financial support.
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About the author
Emilio Navarro
Industry Technology Correspondent
Emilio Navarro covers the cross-cutting technology and business of iGaming — platforms, data and AI, compliance tooling, affiliate marketing, financial results, and the stories that fit no single rubric. The reports open with the announcement, cite vendors and figures exactly as published, and keep a healthy distance from press-release language. When a supplier unveils a new engine or the advertising rulebook changes, Emilio Navarro reports what genuinely changes.
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