The Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ) in Spain has announced the opening of its 2025 funding round to support research into gambling-related disorders. Backed by a total budget of €1,049,380, the initiative is designed to encourage deeper investigation into the causes, prevention, and effects of problem gambling, in alignment with Spain’s national social welfare and public health objectives.
The official announcement appeared in the Official State Gazette on 17 May 2025, marking the formal start of the application window. Institutions interested in applying have until 18 June 2025 to submit their proposals through the DGOJ’s online platform. Approved projects must be completed by 30 June 2026.
Who Can Apply and What Research Areas Are Covered
The funding call is open to Spanish-based public and private research organizations, as well as non-profit institutions that operate under valid cooperation agreements. The grants are being awarded on a competitive basis, with all proposals assessed against the scope and relevance of their research objectives.
Projects must fall under one of six prioritized research lines. These include early detection of problematic gambling behaviors, the psychological and social consequences of gambling, and the impact of gambling on specific demographics—particularly in terms of gender differences. The DGOJ is also keen on funding studies that explore the crossover between gaming and gambling, especially in relation to younger audiences.
Another key focus is the structural design of gambling products. Researchers are invited to analyze how game mechanics in areas such as poker, lotteries, and sports betting may influence user behavior or contribute to harmful patterns.
Policy Alignment and Enforcement Context
This initiative is being carried out under the regulatory framework set by Spain’s Order CSM/472/2022. It reflects the government’s broader strategy to integrate gambling oversight with wider goals set out by the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and Agenda 2030. By supporting research in this space, the DGOJ aims to generate evidence-based insights that can be used to shape responsible gambling policies and promote player protection.
The grant program’s announcement follows a significant wave of enforcement activity. Earlier in May, the DGOJ levied €77.4 million in penalties against 14 unlicensed operators. These sanctions included multiple €5 million fines and one €10 million penalty, with all offending operators banned from the Spanish market for a period of two years. The regulator has emphasized its ongoing commitment to ensuring legal compliance and consumer welfare.
Spain’s Ongoing Commitment to Cross-Border Collaboration
In addition to its domestic efforts, the DGOJ continues to engage internationally to strengthen regulatory best practices. The Spanish authority recently participated in meetings hosted by the UK Gambling Commission and held its first national anti-money laundering roundtable earlier this year, bringing together stakeholders from across the gaming industry.
Further information about the 2025 grant scheme—including full eligibility details, submission guidelines, and the official order—can be accessed on the DGOJ’s website and through Spain’s National Subsidy Database.
Source:
Call for grants published for research into gambling-related disorders in 2025, Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego, May 19, 2025
