FanDuel is backing its entry into the state of Maryland with a significant contribution to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
The sports-tech entertainment company Wednesday announced a $1 million donation to the United Negro College Fund. FanDuel and the UNCF will work with Morgan State University, Bowie State University, Coppin State University, and the University of Maryland-Eastern Shore, to provide financial support to students enrolled at the four Maryland-based HBCUs.
Last month, FanDuel launched its mobile sports betting app and opened a retail sportsbook at Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover, Maryland.
“FanDuel is delighted to be able to legally offer our sportsbook platform here in Maryland,” said FanDuel Group President Christian Genetski in a statement. “More importantly, we’re proud to partner with UNCF once again in support of Maryland’s HBCU community. Our goal is that these funds help make a difference in the lives of hard-working students while also creating a track for some to join us at FanDuel as part of our summer intern program.”
The donation is earmarked to help students at the Maryland HBCUs with expenses including technology, housing, food security, tuition, and education-related expenses. FanDuel also is creating a track for students to join an annual summer internship program at its New York headquarters.
This donation is FanDuel’s second contribution to the UNCF. In February 2021, FanDuel and the Washington Commanders joined to donate $1 million to the philanthropic non-profit organization that funds scholarships for Black students at 37 HBCUs. That donation was directed to students impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic enrolled at HBCUs in the state of Virginia.
