We’re proud to share that we are now officially recognized as a licensed NGO in Austria: ESG iGaming – Verein zur Förderung ethischer Glücksspielpraxis.
What does that mean for our mission? This isn’t just a legal formality. In fact, it’s a defining step in how we operate, who we answer to, and what we stand for. In an industry where trust is an essential pillar of success, we believe transparency, independence, and accountability need more than good intentions—they need structure.
Becoming a gemeinnütziger Verein (nonprofit organization serving the public good) in Austria strengthens our position massively. The focus for us is not only legally, but more so ethically. It builds stakeholder trust, and puts us in a better position to do what we set out to do: help shape a more sustainable, ethical, and transparent iGaming ecosystem
Having the NGO status gives our work the legitimacy it needs to bring real change to the iGaming industry.
Why NGO Status Matters in the iGaming World
The iGaming industry has been historically dominated by commercial interests. Yes, gambling platforms market entertainment—and some even claim their core mission is “bringing joy and happiness to clients. Sounds great, almost humanitarian and it’s not upon us to label such a claim hypocritical. The reality is, joy isn’t what gets tracked. What matters are the numbers: gross profit, revenue, conversion rates, and other performance metrics.
Operators, suppliers, affiliates have KPIs tied to revenue. That’s not a criticism. It’s just how any high-stakes industry works. But real reform? It needs to be independent from revenue-based business metrics. Especially when it comes to ESG, player protection, data ethics, or long-term sustainability, commercial actors often struggle to go beyond what’s required. That’s where we can step in.
As a NGO We’re in a Unique Position
Being a licensed NGO in Austria puts us in a truly unique position. Why? Because we can challenge practices that aren’t working—without being bound to shareholder expectations. We can facilitate uncomfortable conversations—without worrying about commercial fallout. And we can support the good actors in this space—without bias or hidden agenda.
It also makes it easier for us to build trust with regulators, consumer protection agencies, and other NGOs. Because our role is clear and defined by our non-profit status: we’re here to serve the public good, not to win market share or drive revenue.
This matters more than ever as ESG grows from a marketing term into a real governance benchmark. In that space, neutrality isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential to bring real change.
What It Means to Be a Gemeinnütziger Verein in Austria
Austria’s nonprofit framework isn’t symbolic—it’s built on structure, law, and transparency. As a gemeinnütziger Verein (non-profit association), we’re held to clear standards that guide how we operate.
Our internal structure is democratic. Every member has a voice. Major decisions are voted on, not dictated. Leadership is elected, not appointed behind closed doors.
We’re also bound by purpose. Our statute defines exactly how we serve the public interest—and we’re audited against that purpose on a regular basis. That means no drift, no hidden commercial models, and absolutely no room for lobbying dressed up as advocacy.
We must publish transparent financial records, declare conflicts of interest, and submit to public scrutiny. And while this adds administrative effort, it adds something far more valuable: credibility and independence.
In reality, this also means we can speak truthfully to multiple sides—industry, regulators, civil society—and be taken seriously. Because our independence is cemented by our statues, our mission and vision aren’t a tagline or PR stunt. It’s a legal obligation. This is our foundation and serves as the driving force to fulfill our vision – making iGaming more sustainable, social and give back to society.
How being a NGO Helps Our Work
Becoming a licensed NGO in Austria isn’t just a symbolic shift—it’s a strategic enabler. It grants us easier access to networks, opportunities, and partnerships that were previously difficult to reach.
#1. EU-Funded Initiatives
For one, it opens the door to participation in EU-funded initiatives and cross-border research projects. Whether it’s exploring the impact of data-driven marketing on player behaviour or helping shape the next phase of ESG frameworks in online gambling, we can now contribute on a European level—with full legitimacy.
#2 Regulator Cooperation
It also allows us to collaborate more closely with regulators, universities, and public institutions, not just in Austria but across the EU. Our legal structure reassures partners that we are nonpartisan, public-interest focused, and here to foster dialogue—not push an agenda.
#3. NGO Status Means More Reources
With NGO status, we can also apply for public-sector grants and nonprofit funding streams—resources we can use to scale research, develop training programs, and offer educational material and content that’s independent and high-impact.
Perhaps most importantly, it gives us a stronger, clearer seat at the table. We can now serve as a neutral facilitator in discussions between industry stakeholders, compliance and safer gaming experts, and policy actors, including regulatory bodies. These are conversations that need trust—and this license helps us build it.
And as we grow, we don’t have to compromise. Our independence stays intact, our values stay front and centre, and our voice stays focused on what really matters: driving change that benefits the entire ecosystem.
This Is a Foundation—Not a Finish Line
Registering as an NGO doesn’t mean our work is done, it means we’re just about getting into gear. It means we’ve created the right conditions to do it properly and in a legitimate way.
Our mission remains the same: to support ethical, sustainable, and transparent gambling practices—whether that’s through independent research, ESG certification or stakeholder engagement.
And now, with nonprofit legal status in Austria, we’re structurally equipped to carry that mission forward.
We’re proud of this step—but we’re even more focused on what comes next.
FAQ:
What does it mean to be a licensed NGO in Austria?
It means we are a nonprofit association (gemeinnütziger Verein), legally recognized as serving the public good, with strict governance, transparency, and reporting standards.
Are you affiliated with any gambling operators or commercial brands?
No. We are fully independent and do not operate on behalf of any operator, affiliate, or B2B provider.
Why does this status matter for ESG and gambling reform?
It ensures we can act as a neutral, credible voice—one that builds trust between stakeholders without commercial bias.
Can operators or individuals collaborate with you?
Yes. We welcome constructive partnerships that align with our values—especially in areas like research, ESG implementation, and safer gambling.
