DraftKings inks gaming innovation studio sponsorship with University of Nevada
US betting operator strikes studio naming rights deal with Las Vegas-based “Harvard of Gaming”
DraftKings has agreed a multi-year deal to become the primary sponsor of a new gaming innovation studio housed at the University of Nevada’s (UNLV) International Gaming Institute (IGI).
The agreement hopes to create a pipeline to local talent and innovation at the UNLV, which has previously had successes in creating new products, software and responsible gambling-led technologies.
Under the terms of the deal, DraftKings branding will feature throughout the Stan Fulton building, which houses the UNLV International Gaming Institute.
DraftKings opened a 300-person office in Las Vegas in January 2020, housing the operator’s customer experience, fraud, casino, sportsbook trading, HR, and IT teams.
“We’re excited to be working with the University of Nevada and its highly regarded International Gaming Institute to further innovate global online gaming,” said Paul Liberman, DraftKings co-founder and president of global technology and product.
“Through this agreement, DraftKings not only has access to the latest ideas coming out of the Gaming Innovation Studio, but it also allows us to deepen our relationship with the Las Vegas community,” he added.
Open for more than 25 years, the IGI has been described as the “Harvard of Gaming” and houses the Center for Gaming Innovation, the International Center for Gaming Regulation and the Hospitality & Esports Innovation Lab.
“The creation of the DraftKings Gaming Innovation Studio at UNLV will substantially expand the scope and output of UNLV’s gaming innovation program and will provide students the opportunity to collaborate in a professional setting, turning creative ideas into viable casino games,” IGI Center for Gaming Innovation director Daniel Sahl said.
“Now more than ever, we are delighted to collaborate with a company that is well-known for embracing innovation in gaming.
“This collaboration will help ensure that Nevada remains the global leader in gaming development and manufacturing – both now and in the future,” Sahl added.