Underdog Fantasy launches GuardDog

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Underdog Fantasy, the fast-growing sports gaming platform, today announced the launch of GuardDog, a pioneering investment initiative dedicated to fostering innovation in responsible gaming. Underdog is launching GuardDog with $1 million in initial funding to be used to support and accelerate early-stage startups focused on building new and creative solutions to address problem gaming and further responsible gaming.

GuardDog’s mission is to identify, invest and help grow innovative startups that help real-money operators operate responsibly and players play responsibly. In keeping with Underdog’s overarching commitment to industry-leading innovation in responsible gaming, GuardDog will make investments in companies building technology and solutions to make fantasy, betting and all real-money games safer and more enjoyable for those who play.

Companies receiving GuardDog funding will, in addition to monetary investment, get access to advisors, mentors and investors from a community of former regulators, responsible gaming experts, experienced funders and more who can help accelerate their business. Mentors include Brianne Doura-Schawohl, renowned responsible gaming advocate; Adam Warrington, former vice president of Responsible Gaming at FanDuel; Chris Grove, partner at Acies Investments; Dan Hartman, former director of the Colorado Division of Gaming; and Sara Tait, former executive director of the Indiana Gaming Commission.

“At Underdog, we always look to adopt best in class and then innovate further. With GuardDog, we intend to spur innovation to help companies that help people play the games they love — including all our games on Underdog — responsibly,” said Jeremy Levine, founder and co-CEO of Underdog. “We know there are tons of dreamers, entrepreneurs and builders out there that can help build a stronger, more responsible ecosystem for all. We want to help those innovating in responsibility by providing capital, mentorship and valuable connections. We’re really excited to launch GuardDog and we can’t wait to help some amazing companies.”