The Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling (the Center) is implementing the Maryland Universities and Colleges Underage and Problem Gambling Prevention Grant Program for the State of Maryland. Young adults ages 18-24 are of greater risk of problem gambling in comparison to other age groups. According to Maryland Helpline data, helpline calls from young adults ages 18-24 have tripled.
In calendar year 2023, 74 calls were received from people in this age range. Calls from those ages 25-34 are also increasing. According to the 2022 Statewide Gambling Prevalence in Maryland, 2.3% of 18–24-year-olds, 4.2% of 25–34-year-olds and 4% of Marylanders overall have a gambling disorder. Of those of any age who gambled on sports online, 20% had a gambling disorder (Tracy, 2022). Due to the increased risk for young people to engage in risky gambling behaviors that may lead to a gambling disorder, the college-aged population is a priority to reach with underage and problem gambling prevention strategies.
The Center will be offering limited grant opportunities to Maryland colleges and universities in FY 2026. The goal is to fund at least 16 colleges/universities. Each grant will be between $5,000-$15,000, depending on the reach and the amount of prevention strategies proposed. Grant funding will be available when the Center’s finalized contract is received from BHA and all funds are expended.
This Program is funded through the Center with funding from the Maryland Department of Health, Behavioral Health Administration (BHA).
Grant Timeline:
- Grant submission: June 1, 2025-September 19, 2025
- Pre-application workshop: August 20, 2025, 1 pm
- Grant Review: September 19, 2025-October 19, 2025
- Notify grantees of award: October 21, 2025
Learn more and ask questions about the college/university grant by registering for the pre-application workshop at the link below.
If you have any questions. please contact Brina Olunkwa, Prevention Coordinator by email: bolunkwa@som.umaryland.edu or phone (667) 214-2120 at the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling.
