• Australia
  • Argentina
  • България
  • Česko
  • Danmark
  • Deutschland
  • Ελλάδα
  • España
  • France
  • Hrvatska
  • Italia
  • Lietuva
  • Magyarország
  • Nederland
  • Polska
  • Portugal
  • România
  • Schweiz
  • Slovensko
  • Suomi
  • Україна
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • English
Save
  • Jackpot Sounds
  • The Most Recent Data About the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) as of 2026

The Most Recent Data About the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) as of 2026

The growing issue of gambling addiction presents serious challenges for individuals and communities globally. ICRG addresses them and strives to prevent the onset of gambling problems by offering high-quality scientific research and evidence-based educational programming. 

ICRG.org aims to promote a healthier lifestyle and foster responsible gambling practices.

For almost 30 years, the organization has successfully studied the negative impacts of excessive gambling. It now runs a variety of campaigns, verified educational initiatives, and resources to assist gamblers and their friends and family.

by Vladyslav Lazurchenko

Last updated:
Welcome to the International Center for Responsible Gaming
The International Center for Responsible Gaming Main Page

The ICRG is one of the key organizations involved in scientific research in the fields of responsible gambling and gambling addiction prevention. It helps researchers and institutions share their insights into methodologies and approaches to minimizing compulsive gambling. 

Founded in 1996 as the National Center for Responsible Gaming, the organization officially changed its name to ICRG in 2020 to reflect its global reach and international operations.

The organization partners with various stakeholders to promote gambling research. To this end, it runs specific scholarships, funding, grants, and networking options. The International Center for Responsible Gaming website offers actionable solutions, informational materials, and resources for treatment providers who work with gamblers, industry professionals, policymakers, and the public.

About ICRG

The ICRG is dedicated to researching gambling disorders and supporting stakeholders by sharing advanced scientific knowledge, clinical practices, and preventive methodologies.

It hosts webinars and conferences for experts working to prevent gambling problems, and it provides independent, peer-reviewed research to foster the understanding of excessive gambling harms.

Infographic titled ‘Ensuring the Integrity of ICRG Research: THE ICRG FIREWALL’ showing a vertical flow chart. Boxes include: International Center for Responsible Gaming, Scientific Advisory Board, Grant Applications, Proposals, Evaluations, Scientific Advisory Board (decision-making), Publications, and Funding Sources, connected by arrows. Each box contains descriptions of the responsibilities at each stage, highlighting independent peer review, funding decisions, and publication protocols
Integrity of ICRG Research

Unlike GambleAware and Gam-Anon, the ICRG does not operate a helpline for immediate support, and it is not focused on helping individuals and families impacted by gambling disorders directly (via forums or meetings). Instead, it creates educational programs to prevent and treat gambling issues and serves as a valuable resource for information.

ICRG logo and mission statement: advancing research, education, and awareness in responsible gaming.
The ICRG’s mission is to help people affected by gambling disorder and prevent problems through high-quality scientific research and evidence-based education.

Foundation and Mission

The International Center for Responsible Gaming was established in 1996. It was previously affiliated with the American Gaming Association, the primary body representing the casino industry, but it is now an independent entity. In 2000, the ICRG established the Institute for Research on Pathological Gambling and Related Disorders (IRPGRD).

The core mission and underlying concept behind the ICRG are similar to those of organizations like GamCare and GamTalk. It seeks to aid individuals and families who have been affected by gambling disorders and proactively prevent the development of problems.

However, this mission’s real-world implementation differs greatly from rival offerings. It leads innovative research into gambling and strives to prevent the onset of related issues through evidence-based scientific studies and education.

The Team Behind the ICRG

ICRG's primary goal is twofold: 

  • to provide funding and support for quality scientific research 
  • to increase awareness and educate both the gaming industry and the general public.

In 2026, central to achieving this mission is a robust leadership structure currently comprising 

  • a dedicated Board of Directors, 
  • Advisory Council, 
  • Scientific Advisory Board, and 
  • a professional staff team. 

Each component of this structure plays a critical role in guiding the organization. It guarantees financial health, establishes research priorities, and fosters collaboration between industry stakeholders and scientific experts.

The ICRG’s leadership is particularly noteworthy for its combination of industry expertise, academic excellence, and strategic vision. 

The Board of Directors oversees the organization’s operations and ensures financial stability, while serving as ambassadors to promote the organization’s mission. 

The Advisory Council provides strategic guidance on industry trends and responsible gambling initiatives. 

The Scientific Advisory Board maintains rigorous standards for research funding and evaluates proposals to ensure they meet high scientific and ethical standards. 

The staff team executes the day-to-day operations and supports research and outreach initiatives.

ICRG members lend their expertise to obtain financial backing and promote the launch of new research projects every year. At Jackpot Sounds, we wholeheartedly support this initiative.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors confirms the organization remains financially healthy, socially responsible, and scientifically credible. 

Members act as ambassadors, raising awareness of the ICRG’s mission and helping secure financial support for new research initiatives each year.

Name

Position

Affiliation / Additional Information

Michael Soll

President

Current President of ICRG

Phil Satre

President Emeritus

Former President of ICRG

Alan Feldman

Chair Emeritus

Distinguished Fellow, Responsible Gaming, UNLV International Gaming Institute

Mark Lipparelli

Chair Emeritus

Founder, Gioco Ventures LLC; Former Chairman, Nevada Gaming Control Board

Eileen Moore Johnson

Chair

Former Gaming Executive and Strategic Advisor

Andrew Zarnett

Treasurer

Managing Director, Head of Gaming Investment Banking at Jefferies LLC

Board Members

The ICRG Board Members bring a wide range of expertise in gaming operations, public policy, compliance, and corporate governance.

Name

Position

Affiliation / Additional Information

Maria-Christina Annaloro

Director of Government Relations and Responsible Gaming

Sands Corp.

Steven Crystal

Chairman of Board and President

Automated Cashless Systems, Inc.

Alex Dixon

Chief Executive Officer

Resorts World Las Vegas

Daron Dorsey

President & CEO

AGEM

Dean Hestermann

Vice President, Issues Management and Strategic Communications

Caesars Entertainment

Stephen Martino

Senior Vice President & Chief Compliance Officer

MGM Resorts International

Cory Fox

SVP, Public Policy & Sustainability

Fanduel

Bill Miller

President & CEO

American Gaming Association

Sheila Morago

Chief Executive Officer

Trilogy Group

Arthur Paikowsky

Former ICRG President

N/A

M. Cristina Romero De Alba

Partner

LOYRA Law Firm

Scott Seligman

N/A

Seligman Western Enterprises, Ltd

Kate Spilde, Ph.D., M.B.A.

Endowed Chair, Sycuan Institute on Tribal Gaming; Professor

San Diego State University

Mark Vander Linden

Director of Research and Responsible Gaming

Massachusetts Gaming Commission

ICRG Advisory Council

The ICRG Advisory Council is composed of industry leaders who provide guidance on responsible gaming strategies and trends. Their role is advisory rather than operational, but their insight directly influences the President’s decision-making.

Name

Position

Affiliation / Additional Information

Jacob Coin

VP Speech Writer & Executive Advisor

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

Trevor J. Croker

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director

Aristocrat Leisure Limited

Jonathan Halkyard

Chief Financial Officer

MGM Resorts International

Bobby Soper

President and CEO

Sun Gaming & Hospitality

Jacqui Krum

Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

Wynn Resorts, Ltd.

Larry Flynn

President

2 Vice Advice Inc.

ICRG Scientific Advisory Board

The Scientific Advisory Board supervises the competitive grant-making process for ICRG research funding. Members are recognized experts in addiction science and related fields, ensuring that research projects adhere to the highest academic and ethical standards.

Name

Position

Affiliation / Additional Information

Linda B. Cottler, Ph.D., M.P.H.

Chair

Professor of Epidemiology, Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health & Health Professions and College of Medicine, University of Florida

Tammy Chung, Ph.D.

N/A

Professor of Psychiatry, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

David C. Hodgins, Ph.D.

N/A

Professor, Department of Psychology, University of Calgary

Miriam Jorgensen, M.P.P., Ph.D.

Research Director

Native Nations Institute, University of Arizona; Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development, Harvard University

Joyce (Joy) Balls-Berry, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Neurology

Washington University School of Medicine; Core Leader, Health Disparities and Equity Core, Knight ADRC

Gloria Miele, Ph.D.

Program Director

Opioid and Stimulant Implementation Support, UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs; Chair, UCLA ISAP Continuing Medical Education Committee

T. Celeste Napier, Ph.D.

Professor Emeritus

Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, RUSH University Medical Center

ICRG Staff

The ICRG staff implements daily operations, manages research initiatives, oversees partnerships, and promotes responsible gaming education to the public.

Name

Position

Additional Information

Michael Soll

President

Leads the organization and sets strategic priorities

Travis Sztainert, Ph.D.

Director of Research and Education

Oversees research initiatives and educational programming

Joshua Belkin

Director of Corporate Partnerships

Manages corporate collaborations and funding partnerships

Noelle Mancini

Operations and Marketing Manager

Coordinates operations and public communications

International Center for Responsible Gaming Team Structure Chart
International Center for Responsible Gaming Team Structure Chart

Organizational Impact and Leadership Philosophy

The ICRG is recognized not only for its rigorous research funding process but also for its leadership model that blends scientific integrity with industry expertise. 

The Board of Directors ensures the organization’s stability and promotes collaboration between private industry and academic researchers. 

Their role in securing funding is pivotal, as new research projects are initiated annually through grants guided by the Scientific Advisory Board.

The Advisory Council strengthens the ICRG’s responsiveness to industry trends and regulatory developments, offering perspectives that complement the Scientific Advisory Board's more research-focused approach. 

Meanwhile, the Scientific Advisory Board’s meticulous review process ensures that every research project funded contributes meaningful insight into gambling disorder prevention and responsible gaming strategies.

The staff plays a critical role in executing these initiatives. By supporting research projects, managing public education campaigns, and facilitating partnerships, they ensure that the ICRG’s mission translates into measurable outcomes in the gaming industry and public health sectors. 

This combination of leadership, expertise, and operational excellence allows the ICRG to remain a trusted authority in responsible gaming research globally.

The International Center for Responsible Gaming thus represents a unique synergy of leadership, academic expertise, industry knowledge, and operational precision. Each member of the Board, Advisory Council, Scientific Advisory Board, and staff contributes to a culture of responsible gaming, scientific rigor, and public engagement.

Driving Change in the iGaming Industry

As the global iGaming industry grows and evolves, ICRG’s research remains crucial in driving positive change and advancing the sector.

Prior to 1996, there was a notable lack of studies into the risks associated with gambling. Through independent, peer-reviewed studies, ICRG enhances understanding of gambling-related harms and identifies effective mitigation strategies. 

The organization aims to translate research findings into practical applications for prevention and treatment, as well as policy changes. The research it funds helps inform the public and reinforces responsible gambling practices.

Although the ICRG’s contribution to supporting gamblers is indirect, it advances the understanding of addiction and develops evidence-based practices, which are then used by direct service providers. 

Substantial Funding for Research

To support researchers and provide grants, the organization raises money. The ICRG has received over $50 million in financial support from various sectors of the gaming industry, including: There is no federal funding for gambling research in the United States, so this is private money given specifically to keep independent research going.

  • Casino gaming industry
  • Tribal casinos
  • Equipment manufacturers
  • Vendors
  • Sports wagering firms
  • Related organizations and individuals

Notable supporters include:

Contribution level

Donors

$200,000+

Bally’s, Caesars Foundation, FanDuel, JCM Global, MGM Resorts International, National Football League, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, Sands, WynnBet

$100,000–$199,000

Aristocrat, BetMGM, GeoComply, Playtech, Wind Creek Hospitality, Wynn Resorts Limited

$50,000–$99,000

Boyd Gaming, DraftKings, Hard Rock International, IGT, Italian Lottery, Venetian Las Vegas, Vici Properties

$10,000–$49,000

Cherokee Nation Entertainment, Chickasaw Nation Office of the Gaming Commissioner, Clarion Gaming, Desert Diamond Casino, Everi, Central Indiana Community Foundation/Hoosier Lottery, ICRG Board of Directors, Konami, Light & Wonder, Northstar New Jersey Lottery, Penn National Gaming, Potawatomi Casino & Hotel, RX Reed Exhibitions, Sandia Resort & Casino, Station Casinos, The Innovation Group

$9,999 and below

In Queso Fire, Little Wheel, Missouri Lottery, Michigan Lottery, OpenBet, Q Casino, Rush Street Interactive, Ultimate Fighting Championship, Wondr Nation

ICRG also runs a separate Sports Wagering Research Fund, backed by the American Gaming Association and MGM Resorts International ($100,000 each), DraftKings, Caesars Entertainment and Entain ($50,000 each), NASCAR ($25,000), Hard Rock International ($20,000), IGT ($15,000) and the PGA Tour ($12,500). Every member of ICRG's own board also donates.

The American Gaming Association and the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers sponsored the AGEM-AGA Golf Classic, presented by JCM Global. The 27th tournament, held in May 2026 at SouthShore Country Club in Henderson, Nevada, raised $185,000, bringing the total raised for the ICRG over the tournament's history to $3.2 million.

Additionally, the organization runs the Lottery Membership Program for state lottery agencies and related businesses that support research and education on gambling disorders.

This substantial funding ensures the continuation of high-quality research and the development of innovative solutions. Meanwhile, the ICRG protects the integrity of the research that it funds.

Key Collaborators and Partnerships

The ICRG actively collaborates with a variety of organizations:

  • The American Gaming Association (AGA)
  • The Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM)
  • RX: Global Gaming Expo
  • Caesars Entertainment, DraftKings, Entain, NASCAR
  • Central Indiana Community Foundation/Hoosier Lottery, IGT, Italian Lottery, and more

The ICRG provides grants to universities to conduct research. For example, in 2023, a $600,000 grant was awarded to the University of Sydney to establish the Centre of Excellence in Gambling Research.

ICRG Metrics

Over $50 million has been committed to its initiatives. ICRG-funded studies have yielded more than 400 scholarly articles since 1996 published in highly competitive scientific journals. Currently, the ICRG offers five educational programs for public use as a part of its primary public health contribution, similar to 800gambler.org. The organization has successfully reached out to millions of people, conveying the message of its core values. ICRG also notes that between 1999 and 2003 it funded roughly a third of all gambling-risk research published worldwide, and that its calls for proposals now go out to more than 1,000 scientists.

Research funded by the ICRG aims to support responsible gambling policies, consumer protection measures, and regulation. For instance, studies have been conducted to understand the demographic and socioeconomic factors that may lead to financial difficulties related to gambling, to gain an idea of which populations are most at risk.

Services Provided by the International Center for Responsible Gaming

The ICRG does not offer private meetings, anonymous chats and forums, online consultation, an ICRG hotline, or counseling services for those impacted by gambling disorder.

Those in need of immediate assistance can find resources on the ICRG’s website, such as the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline run by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). Additionally, the suicide and crisis helpline, 988, provides 24/7 support free of charge.

The “Get Help” section of the website also offers guidance on finding qualified healthcare providers and links to self-help resources. There, you can find links to anonymous questionnaires to identify gambling issues, such as the Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen, and useful books.

The website also offers comprehensive guidelines on how to obtain help, such as contacting Gamblers Anonymous. This ensures that people can receive assistance in the most convenient way for them.

The services of the organization are divided into the following categories:

Three further resources are worth knowing about: Our Process, which explains how ICRG's research firewall works; the Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen, a short self-assessment; and the Gambling and Health Series, ICRG's plain-language briefings for clinicians and the public.

Continued Commitment to Research

With the ongoing support of generous companies, the ICRG remains at the forefront of gambling research. The funding from the private sector highlights the shared commitment to enhancing knowledge, encouraging responsible gambling practices, and tackling the intricate challenges related to disorders.

The organization provides extensive educational resources to enhance awareness of gambling disorders and responsible gambling practices. These materials include:

  • Press releases
  • Blog articles
  • Scientific articles
  • Webinar series
  • Guidebooks and fact sheets

They cover topics such as recognizing the signs of problem gambling, managing finances, and accessing support services. Additionally, the ICRG leverages social media channels to launch targeted campaigns and share resources with a broader audience.

Research Supported by ICRG

The ICRG has played a role in the dramatic increase in knowledge about the potential health consequences of gambling. It has a robust portfolio of research projects, which you can find on the Funded Research page. That page is split into four parts: Research Milestones, Project Grants, Centers of Excellence and Scientific Achievement Awards.

ICRG Funded Research page with researchers speaking at a conference.
ICRG funds independent, peer-reviewed studies to understand gambling-related harms and effective mitigation; its support has contributed to 400+ published scholarly articles.

With the expansion of legalized sports betting, the ICRG has prioritized research into its impact. Many studies are investigating the complex relationship between gambling disorders and other mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety.

Research Process at ICRG

Research has also been done into how AI can be used to create next-generation responsible gaming tools.

Publications include:

Recent ICRG Project Grants (2025)

In 2025 alone, ICRG awarded 15 project grants worth roughly $2.25 million, ranging from a $5,000 dissertation grant to two awards of over $435,000. The spread shows where the field is heading: messaging and nudges, artificial intelligence, Tribal gaming employees, sports betting and personal finances, and the overlap between gambling and mental health.

Project

Lead researcher and institution

Award

From Norms to Nudges: Unlocking Responsible Gambling Through Messaging, Messengers, and Motivation

Michael J. A. Wohl, Carleton University

$437,500

Co-designing Responsible Gambling Messages with People who Gamble

Seth McCullock, Cambridge Health Alliance

$435,087

AI for RG: emerging AI technologies for the next generation of responsible gambling tools

Daniel McGrath, University of Calgary

$187,874

The Chicken or the Egg? Gambling, mental health and addiction problems among emerging adults

Andrew (Hyounsoo) Kim, Toronto Metropolitan University

$186,578

Gambling Disorder and Comorbid Mental Health Conditions

Robert Heirene, University of Sydney

$186,319

First Face for Tribal Gaming Employees

Sarah E. Nelson, Cambridge Health Alliance / Harvard Medical School

$181,839

Strengthening Mental Health Competency Among Gaming Industry Employees

Chris Davis, Carleton University

$180,987

Social Media, Lottery Marketing, and Gambling: digital exposure and behavioural outcomes

Alex Kresovich, NORC at the University of Chicago

$171,279

Examining the Effects of Psilocybin on Gambling Behavior

Katherine M. Nautiyal, Dartmouth College

$50,000

Leveraging Future Self-Continuity to Promote Responsible Gambling in Emerging Adults

Ganga Urumutta Hewage, University of Memphis

$49,266

Assessing the Impact of Legalized Sports Gambling on Bankruptcy Rates

Paul Sacco, University of Maryland, Baltimore

$46,000

Evaluating the Impact of Environmental Gambling Cues with Pavlovian-Instrumental Transfer

Martyn Quigley, Swansea University

$44,936

Development and validation of the Gambling Behaviour Change Beliefs questionnaire

Scott Houghton, Northumbria University

$42,608

Problem gambling treatment outcomes using state behavioural health system data

Ki H. Park, University of Northern Iowa

$41,738

Future Desires, Past Longings: nostalgia and the recovery process (dissertation grant)

Gray Gaudett, Carleton University

$5,000

Many of these awards carry a named industry backer, such as FanDuel, Bally's Corporation, MGM Resorts International, Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming, or DraftKings. Under ICRG's firewall the donor has no say in who receives the money or what the findings say.

ICRG Centers of Excellence

Alongside individual project grants, ICRG funds Centers of Excellence: longer-term, institution-level programmes launched in 2009 that combine multidisciplinary research with mentoring for new investigators.

Centre / programme

Principal investigator

Awarded

Amount

Optimising voluntary engagement with technology-based tools to prevent and reduce gambling harms

Sally Gainsbury, University of Sydney

2023

$402,461

Gambling and emerging adults: understanding risk pathways

Lia Nower, Rutgers University

2022

$391,497

University of Missouri, Columbia

Earlier centre

2017

—

University of Chicago

Earlier centre

2016

—

Yale University

Earlier centre

2009

—

University of Minnesota

Earlier centre

2009

—

Spotlight on ICRG-Funded Research: “Gambling Satisfaction”

In May 2026 ICRG highlighted a study from Sally Gainsbury's team at the University of Sydney that proposes an unusual way of spotting gambling harm. Instead of measuring only symptoms and losses, it asks how satisfied people are with their own gambling. The full write-up is on ICRG's blog: Rethinking Gambling Harm Through a New Lens: “Gambling Satisfaction”.

Gambling research has traditionally focused almost entirely on harms and deficits. Using large-scale survey data from both online and land-based gamblers, this study looked instead at how people rate their own gambling experience, and found that:

  • gambling satisfaction goes down as problem gambling severity goes up;
  • it goes up alongside financial well-being and overall life satisfaction;
  • a single question about satisfaction can help flag people who are experiencing harm, especially alongside other indicators.

Satisfaction turned out to reflect much more than whether someone had won or lost. It was shaped by a sense of control, financial outcomes, the social and physical setting, and whether gambling still felt like entertainment rather than an obligation.

Why it matters: a one-question, non-judgemental check-in is far easier to put in front of players than a clinical screening tool, and it avoids the stigma that stops people answering honestly. It points towards earlier intervention and towards responsible gambling tools that people actually choose to use. The study sits inside Gainsbury's Center of Excellence programme, which also runs studies using real-world behavioural data, co-designed interventions and targeted messaging.

Events and Conferences

To foster dialogue, disseminate the latest scientific findings to a broad audience, share knowledge, and discuss critical issues, the organization hosts an annual conference. 

The Annual ICRG Conference on Gambling and Addiction has served as a platform for researchers, clinicians, industry executives, and policymakers for over two decades.

The next one is the 27th Annual ICRG Conference on Gambling and Addiction, on 27–28 September 2026 at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. The previous conference, the 26th, ran on 5–6 October 2025 at the same venue. Full details of the 2026 programme are below.

27th Annual ICRG Conference on Gambling and Addiction

ICRG bills its annual conference as the leading science-based forum on gambling disorder and responsible gambling, and the 2026 edition runs over two days at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. It pulls together an unusual mix of people for one event: treatment providers, public health professionals, researchers, responsible gambling specialists, industry leaders, regulators, policymakers, and people with lived experience of gambling harm.

Event

27th Annual ICRG Conference on Gambling and Addiction

Dates

Sunday 27 – Monday 28 September 2026

Venue

The Venetian Expo, 201 Sands Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89169

Format

Keynotes, two parallel tracks, panels, pre-conference workshops, poster sessions and lightning talks, plus an awards luncheon

Continuing education

Up to 11 CE hours: 2 from a pre-conference workshop and 9 across the main sessions

CE approvals

American Psychological Association, NAADAC (provider #100793), National Board for Certified Counselors (ACEP no. 6474), and IPGGC preferred provider

Registration

Through the event site: https://www.eventleaf.com/e/CGA2026

Event contact

Noelle Mancini, [email protected], +1 978-338-6110

Who the Programme Is Aimed At

The sessions are built around three audiences. Treatment providers and public health professionals get prevention and early intervention, co-occurring mental health and substance use, the psychology and neuroscience of gambling risk, recovery pathways, and Indigenous and Tribal approaches to healing. Responsible gambling professionals, industry figures and regulators get AI and data science for player protection, prediction markets and other emerging products, lottery marketing and social media, and industry–research partnerships. Researchers get new evidence on gambling motivations, emerging adults and vulnerable groups, translational neuroscience, and sports betting policy.

Conference Agenda

Sunday 27 September

Time

Session

07:00–18:00

On-site registration and check-in, first floor of the Venetian Expo

10:00–12:00

Pre-conference workshops: “From Policy to Practice: The Essential Building Blocks for Sustainable Player Protection” and “First Face for Mental Health: Using the Healing Hands Tool in Prevention & Healing”

12:00–13:00

Pre-conference boxed lunch

13:00–13:15

Conference welcome

13:15–14:15

Opening keynote: “Optimising Voluntary Engagement with Responsible Gambling Tools: Building Tools That Work for the People Using Them”

14:30–15:30

Track 1: “AI and Data Science: The Future of Player Protection” · Track 2: “Indigenous and Tribal Leadership in Gambling Policy, Prevention, and Healing”

15:30–16:00

Refreshment break

16:00–17:00

Panel: “Voices, Experiences, and Pathways Forward”

17:15–18:30

Poster lightning talks

18:30–20:00

Poster session and reception

Monday 28 September

Time

Session

08:00–08:30

Networking breakfast, plus an open AA/GA meeting

08:30–09:30

Morning keynote: “Emerging Adult Gambling: New Directions for Prevention, Policy, and Research”

09:45–10:45

Track 1: sports betting legalisation, rural communities and fatal alcohol-involved crashes · Track 2: “Gambling Harm Across the Life Course”

10:45–11:15

Refreshment break

11:15–12:15

Track 1: “An investigation of esports betting” · Track 2: “Loss Chasing: From clinical origins to behavioral risk detection”

12:15–13:15

Awards luncheon

13:30–14:30

Track 1: “Bridging the Gap: Can Industry and Research Work Together?” · Track 2: “Why People Gamble: Implications for Prevention and Early Intervention”

14:45–15:45

Track 1: “Social Media, Lottery Marketing, and Gambling” · Track 2: “Translational Science of Gambling Risk”

15:45–16:00

Refreshment break

16:00–17:30

Closing plenary: “The Future of Sports Wagering: Perspectives from Professional Sports”

Several of these sessions trace directly back to grants listed earlier in this article. The Monday session on sports betting legalisation and alcohol-involved crashes comes out of Mark van der Maas's ICRG-funded work at Rutgers, and the session on social media and lottery marketing follows Alex Kresovich's 2025 grant at NORC. It is a useful illustration of how ICRG money turns into published findings and then into practice.

Registration Fees

Registration type

Early bird (closed 31 Aug)

Standard

On-site, from 27 Sept

Full conference

$375

$395

$595

Full conference — student

$195

$245

$395

Full conference — treatment provider

$195

$245

$395

Sunday only

$225

$250

$450

Monday only

$250

$300

$450

Every option except Monday-only includes the pre-conference workshops. Early-bird pricing closed on 31 August 2026, and anyone registering from 27 September pays the on-site rate. ICRG also funded more than 50 conference scholarships in 2026 through its sponsors.

2026 ICRG Scientific Achievement Awards

The awards are presented at the Monday luncheon, and 2026 is the first year they carry a new name: the Scientific Achievement Award has become the Howard J. Shaffer Scientific Achievement Award, after the scholar whose work shaped much of modern gambling studies. There are three categories: Scientific Achievement, Education and Mentorship, and Outstanding Publication.

ICRG announced the winners in September 2026. Professor Sally Gainsbury of the University of Sydney is the first recipient of the renamed Howard J. Shaffer Scientific Achievement Award, recognising an international research programme spanning igaming, responsible gambling tools, self-exclusion, help-seeking, digital interventions and public policy, with more than 140 peer-reviewed publications. She also leads the ICRG Center of Excellence and the gambling satisfaction research described above. Dr Paulette J. O'Gilvie of American Baptist College receives the Education and Mentorship Award for building gambling education into undergraduate teaching and opening the field to students and communities that have historically been left out of it.

Alongside the awards, the conference runs a poster programme grouped into four themes: treatment, recovery and clinical outcomes; responsible gambling, identity and risk; risk factors and co-occurring behaviours; and emerging products, technology and gambling mechanics. Outstanding poster awards are announced at the same luncheon.

ICRG Webinars and Events Calendar

Between conferences, ICRG's main public offering is a free webinar series, each session usually worth one continuing education hour. Everything is listed on the upcoming events page and the events calendar, which you can also subscribe to in Google Calendar, Outlook or any app that reads iCal, so new sessions appear automatically. Past sessions stay available in the webinar archive.

What's coming up:

What

When

Where to find it

Webinar: Problem Gambling and Suicidality: An Urgent Public Health Issue

17 September 2026, 14:00–15:00 (Eastern)

Online via Zoom; worth 1 CE hour

27th Annual ICRG Conference on Gambling and Addiction

27–28 September 2026

The Venetian Expo, Las Vegas

The September webinar, Problem Gambling and Suicidality: An Urgent Public Health Issue, is led by Heather M. Gray of the Division on Addiction at Cambridge Health Alliance and Harvard Medical School, and James Whelan of the Tennessee Institute for Gambling Education & Research. It covers the psychological, social and financial factors behind raised suicide risk among people experiencing gambling problems, and practical guidance on risk assessment and early referral. It is aimed at clinicians and other professionals rather than people currently in crisis. If you need help now, call or text 988 in the US for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or 1-800-GAMBLER for gambling support, both free and available around the clock.

How to Apply for ICRG Research Funding

Researchers can apply to ICRG directly. Everything applicants need, including requests for applications, forms and eligibility rules, sits on the Apply for ICRG Funding page, with the downloadable documents held in ICRG's research resources library.

The 2026 Grants Programme

ICRG runs several funding streams side by side each year, from small dissertation and travel grants through to multi-year awards. These were the 2026 opportunities and their deadlines:

Grant

Amount available

2026 deadline

Research on sports betting, alcohol and substance use

Up to $437,500, including indirect costs

17 July 2026

Large grant: gambling disorder and responsible gambling

Up to $75,000 a year for two years

Letters of intent 14 May 2026; applications 14 August 2026

Research on lottery gambling and responsible gambling

Up to $75,000 a year for two years plus indirect costs ($187,500 total)

26 June 2026

Seed grant: gambling disorder and responsible gambling

Up to $40,000 direct ($50,000 with indirects)

5 June 2026

Seed grant: sports betting, fan behaviour and athlete well-being

Up to $40,000 direct ($50,000 with indirects)

5 June 2026

Seed grant: gambling behaviours and risks among college athletes and students

Up to $40,000 direct ($50,000 with indirects)

5 June 2026

Dissertation grant

Up to $5,000 for one year

5 June 2026

Travel grant for researchers

Up to $1,500

Ongoing through 2026

All the 2026 application deadlines have now passed apart from the travel grant, which stays open on a rolling basis. ICRG publishes each new round on the same page, so researchers planning a 2027 application should watch it, together with the amounts above as a guide to the likely scale.

How ICRG Decides Who Gets Funded

Because ICRG's research money comes largely from gambling companies, the organisation runs what it calls a firewall between the donors and the science. It works in five steps:

1. Priorities are set

The Scientific Advisory Board, an independent panel of addiction scientists, develops and approves every funding initiative.

2. The call goes out

Requests for applications are circulated to more than 1,000 scientists worldwide.

3. Independent peer review

Applications are assessed by peer review panels made up of leading researchers in the gambling field.

4. The board decides

The Scientific Advisory Board reviews those evaluations and makes the final funding decisions. Neither ICRG's governing board nor its donors have any input.

5. Findings stay quiet until published

Results are not announced until they appear in a peer-reviewed journal.

Academic Integrity and Research Misconduct

ICRG also publishes a policy on research misconduct, which it defines, following the US Office of Research Integrity, as fabrication, falsification or plagiarism rather than honest error or a difference of opinion. Peer reviewers who suspect misconduct must tell ICRG's Senior Research Director immediately and must not raise it during the review itself, and the application still goes through peer review. The Scientific Advisory Board then meets within 30 days, and within a further 30 days decides by at least a two-thirds majority whether the case is serious enough to report to the applicant's own institution.

Getting in Touch with ICRG

To make sure access to its services and resources is straightforward and user-friendly, the ICRG provides multiple channels. The contact methods meet a wide range of needs, including inquiries about the organization’s work, research findings, events, and more.

Individuals seeking immediate and confidential assistance with gambling-related issues are encouraged to call the NCPG hotline. For general questions, use other channels.

Contact Method

Details

Website

https://www.icrg.org/

Confidential Helpline

+1-800-GAMBLER (the National Council on Problem Gambling)

For immediate crisis support in the US, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline), free and available 24/7.

Phone

+1-978-338-6610

Email

[email protected]

Fax

+1-978-552-8452

Contact Form

https://www.icrg.org/contact-us/

Events and calendar

https://www.icrg.org/events/

Research funding enquiries

https://www.icrg.org/information/apply-for-icrg-funding/

Headquarters

101 Convention Center Drive, Suite 600, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/ICRGorNCRG/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/icrg_1996/

Testimonials & Success Stories

Michael, 41

“After years of chasing losses, I finally realized I needed help. Learning about the resources supported by the ICRG gave me a better understanding of gambling addiction and encouraged me to seek professional treatment. Today, I’ve been in recovery for over a year.”

Sarah, 34

“I never thought gambling could affect my mental health so deeply. The educational materials and research funded through the ICRG helped me recognize the warning signs early. With support from my therapist, I’m rebuilding my confidence one day at a time.”

Daniel, 52

“My gambling addiction damaged both my finances and my family life. Reading about evidence-based approaches promoted by the ICRG motivated me to find qualified treatment. Recovery hasn’t been easy, but I’m finally moving in the right direction.”

Emily, 29

“I felt ashamed to admit I had a gambling problem. Discovering information backed by the ICRG helped me understand that addiction is a health issue, not a personal failure. That knowledge gave me the confidence to ask for help.”

James, 46

“The research and awareness initiatives supported by the ICRG helped me better understand my behavior and the triggers behind it. With professional guidance and family support, I’ve developed healthier habits and no longer let gambling control my life.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ICRG?

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) is a nonprofit organization that funds independent scientific research on gambling disorder and responsible gambling while promoting public education based on research findings.

2. Does the ICRG provide treatment for gambling addiction?

No. The ICRG does not offer direct counseling or treatment services. Instead, it supports research, education, and initiatives that improve understanding and treatment of gambling-related harm.

3. Who funds the ICRG?

Funding comes overwhelmingly from the private sector: commercial and Tribal gaming companies, equipment manufacturers, vendors, sports wagering firms, lotteries and individual donors, totalling over $50 million to date. There is no federal funding for gambling research in the United States. To keep that money from shaping the science, ICRG runs a firewall in which an independent Scientific Advisory Board sets the priorities and makes the final funding decisions, and donors have no input.

4. Who can benefit from the ICRG’s work?

Researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, educators, gambling operators, and individuals seeking reliable information about gambling disorder can all benefit from the ICRG’s research and educational resources.

5. Why is the ICRG important?

The ICRG helps improve the understanding of gambling addiction by funding independent scientific studies. Its work contributes to better prevention strategies, more effective treatment approaches, and evidence-based responsible gambling policies.

6. When and where is the next ICRG conference?

The 27th Annual ICRG Conference on Gambling and Addiction takes place on 27–28 September 2026 at The Venetian Expo, 201 Sands Avenue, Las Vegas. Full registration ran to $395 in advance and $595 on site, with reduced rates for students and treatment providers, and attendees can earn up to 11 continuing education hours.

7. Can researchers apply to the ICRG for funding?

Yes. ICRG runs an annual grants programme covering large multi-year grants, seed grants, dissertation grants and travel grants, with awards ranging from $1,500 up to $437,500. Requests for applications, forms and deadlines are published on ICRG's Apply for ICRG Funding page. Applications are judged by independent peer review panels, and the Scientific Advisory Board makes the final decision.

8. Where can I see what research the ICRG has funded?

ICRG's Funded Research page lists every project grant awarded since 1996, along with research milestones and its Centers of Excellence. In 2025 the organisation awarded 15 project grants worth around $2.25 million. Notable findings are also written up on the ICRG blog under Research Highlights.

References

  1. American Gaming Association. American Gaming Association. American Gaming Association, https://www.americangaming.org/. Retrieved 12 Nov. 2025.
  2. American Society on Aging. Alliance for Gambling Education and Treatment. American Society on Aging, https://www.agem.org/. Retrieved 28 Sep. 2025.
  3. Buffalo Center for Research on Inclusion and Gambling. Gambling Links. University at Buffalo, https://www.buffalo.edu/cria/about-us/related_links/gambling_links.html. Retrieved 13 May 2025.
  4. Harvard University. Harvard University. President and Fellows of Harvard College, https://www.harvard.edu/. Retrieved 20 Jun. 2025.
  5. International Center for Responsible Gaming. International Center for Responsible Gaming. International Center for Responsible Gaming, https://www.icrg.org/. Retrieved 15 Jul. 2025.
  6. International Center for Responsible Gaming. Our Funding. International Center for Responsible Gaming, https://www.icrg.org/information/our-funding/. Retrieved 15 Sept. 2026.
  7. International Center for Responsible Gaming. Our Mission. International Center for Responsible Gaming, https://www.icrg.org/information/our-mission/. Retrieved 15 Sept. 2026.
  8. International Center for Responsible Gaming. Research Resources. International Center for Responsible Gaming, https://www.icrg.org/research/resources/. Retrieved 30 Sep. 2025.
  9. International Center for Responsible Gaming. Get Help. International Center for Responsible Gaming, https://www.icrg.org/information/get-help/. Retrieved 15 Oct. 2025.
  10. International Center for Responsible Gaming. Apply for ICRG Funding. International Center for Responsible Gaming, n.d., https://www.icrg.org/information/apply-for-icrg-funding/. Accessed 15 Sept. 2026.
  11. —. Funded Gambling Research Projects. International Center for Responsible Gaming, n.d., https://www.icrg.org/research/funded-research/. Accessed 15 Sept. 2026.
  12. —. 27th Annual Conference on Gambling & Addiction. International Center for Responsible Gaming, 2026, https://www.icrg.org/event/27th-annual-conference-on-gambling-addiction/. Accessed 15 Sept. 2026.
  13. —. Upcoming Events. International Center for Responsible Gaming, n.d., https://www.icrg.org/events/. Accessed 15 Sept. 2026.
  14. —. Webinar: Problem Gambling and Suicidality: An Urgent Public Health Issue. International Center for Responsible Gaming, 2026, https://www.icrg.org/event/webinar-problem-gambling-and-suicidality-an-urgent-public-health-issue/. Accessed 15 Sept. 2026.
  15. —. Spotlight on ICRG-Funded Research: Rethinking Gambling Harm Through a New Lens: “Gambling Satisfaction”. International Center for Responsible Gaming, 15 May 2026, https://www.icrg.org/blog/rethinking-gambling-harm-through-a-new-lens-gambling-satisfaction/. Accessed 15 Sept. 2026.
  16. Eventleaf. 27th Annual ICRG Conference on Gambling and Addiction. International Center for Responsible Gaming, 2026, https://www.eventleaf.com/e/CGA2026. Accessed 15 Sept. 2026.
  17. Behe, Rege. International Center for Responsible Gaming Honors Sally M. Gainsbury, Paulette J. O'Gilvie with Awards. CDC Gaming, 10 Sept. 2026, https://cdcgaming.com/international-center-for-responsible-gaming-honors-sally-m-gainsbury-paulette-j-ogilvie-with-awards/. Accessed 15 Sept. 2026.
  18. —. AGEM & AGA Golf Classic Raises $185K for International Center for Responsible Gaming. CDC Gaming, 13 July 2026, https://cdcgaming.com/agem-aga-golf-classic-raises-185k-for-international-center-for-responsible-gaming/. Accessed 15 Sept. 2026.
  19. Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Massachusetts Gaming Commission, https://massgaming.com/. Retrieved 22 Jul. 2025.
  20. University of California, Los Angeles. Continuing Medical Education Committee. UCLA Institute for Public Health and Practice, https://www.uclaisap.org/continuingeducation/cme-committee.html. Retrieved 02 Dec. 2025.
  21. University of Florida, College of Public Health and Health Professions. University of Florida – PHHP. University of Florida, https://phhp.ufl.edu/. Retrieved 05 Nov. 2025.
  22. RUSH University. Rush University. Rush University, https://www.rush.edu/. Retrieved 08 Jan. 2026.