ICE Barcelona will get off to a positive start in 2026 with the announcement of a record €80,000 charity fund raised for organizations focused on safer gambling in the Sustainable Gambling Zone (SGZ). The total will be formally presented at a ceremony on Monday, January 19 at 11 a.m. on the SGZ stage, highlighting the industry’s commitment to responsible play and player wellbeing.

Industry Support Drives Record Donations

The 2026 charity fund is the result of generous contributions from a wide range of leading gaming operators and suppliers, including Zitro, Acordjoc, Cirsa, Flutter, Orenes, Betsson Group, Merkur, Merkur Dosniha, BGaming, and Novomatic. These donations raise the cumulative total donated at ICE since 2019 to €462,500, demonstrating growing support for safer gaming efforts across the sector.

Expansion of the Sustainable Gambling Zone

This year’s edition of the SGZ will be the largest yet, featuring 27 safer gambling organizations from 10 countries, and offering attendees access to the latest technology trends as well as discussions on the future of safer gambling and regulation. Located prominently in the main corridor between Halls 4 and 5 with an open‑plan layout, the SGZ continues to serve as the flagship platform for promoting responsible gaming practices at ICE Barcelona.

Beyond Financial Support

According to ICE Portfolio Director Margaret Dunn, this record sum reflects the industry’s deepening commitment to player protection. Dunn notes that the SGZ goes beyond financial contributions, fostering collaboration, debate, and shared learning that have helped drive advances in safer gambling practices over the years.

Legacy and Impact of Donations

At ICE Barcelona 2025, charities such as Gordon Moody, Fejar, and FES received support through the SGZ fund, enabling impactful initiatives such as the launch of Catalan‑language campaigns about the risks of digital gambling for schools and families. This year’s funding aims to expand that legacy of meaningful social impact.

Headline Sponsor and Innovation

The headline sponsor of the 2026 SGZ is Gamecheck, a provider of blockchain‑based verification technology that helps operators ensure game integrity and strengthen trust with players, turning responsible gambling into a competitive advantage.