DraftKings has entered into a multi-year financial deal that will see the company aid states throughout the country by giving more than $1 million to the funding program.

DraftKings’ State Council Funding Program, dubbed The State Council Funding Program, offers each state council $15,000 per year for three years, a total commitment of $1,575,000 over three years, to assist local charity organizations in their work.

DraftKings commits for State Council Funding

Each council is responsible for how the State Council Funding Program provides its services and programs for individuals, families, and council personnel, including training, conferences, helplines, and general capacity building. Additionally, a state council may utilize the cash to investigate the possibility of capacity building in neighboring states that lack a council presence.

Christine Thurmond, director of responsible gaming at DraftKings, stated, “Having spent several years of my career working with the state council in my home state of Massachusetts, I have seen firsthand how these organizations serve as an invaluable resource for individuals and families, as well as a critical stakeholder and partner for gaming operators.”

“DraftKings is committed to developing responsible gaming through partnerships with state gaming commissions across the United States. Our objective is that this financing will provide councils with the additional support they require to fund priority areas, expand services, or hire additional people; we want to assist financially with whatever is most needed.”

“State councils serve as the first line of defense in addressing the needs of those affected by problem gambling,” Keith Whyte, executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling, noted.

“While it is generally documented that these organizations provide vital services to the community, they do not always have the resources or funding to advance treatment and prevention.DraftKings’ considerable initiative demonstrates their commitment to and understanding of the critical work state councils perform.”

Additional Details

The multi-year financial commitment comes on the heels of DraftKings and the Tulalip Tribes of Washington forming an exclusive market access arrangement to bring the company’s retail sportsbook to the state of Washington. DraftKings retail sportsbooks are scheduled to operate at Tulalip Resort Casino and Quil Ceda Creek Casino due to the partnership.

Tulalip Resort’s sportsbook, subject to licensure and regulatory clearance, will comprise a 5,000-square-foot area with a 50-foot TV wall, over two dozen kiosks, and eight ticket windows. According to sources, the DraftKings sportsbook at Quil Ceda Creek Casino is still in the development stages.

“As we prepare to open our sportsbooks, we are thrilled to announce our exclusive collaboration with DraftKings,” Teri Gobin, chairperson of the Tulalip Tribes, added. “We’re prepared to elevate our gaming experience to new heights.

“Like Tulalip, DraftKings is committed to excellence, and together we’re going to create a one-of-a-kind experience for sports fans. We can’t wait to share our adventure with our customers as we construct the newest addition to our entertainment attractions.”

When fully operational, Washington will become the 19th state in which DraftKings’ sportsbook product is available. Today is a fantastic day for DraftKings, as we prepare to expand our sports betting presence into the beautiful Pacific Northwest,” concluded Michael Kibort, DraftKings’ senior director of retail sportsbooks.”

“We look forward to offering the very best in real-money gaming experiences to a state with a passionate fan base across major professional sports leagues in conjunction with the Tulalip Tribes of Washington.”