ZonMw call for proposals: beating gambling addiction
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27 Aug 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes Since the Kansspelen op afstand law came into force in 2021, the number of people exposed to gambling addiction has increased significantly. In response to this alarming reality, ZonMw is launching a major initiative: in September 2025, it will open a call for proposals for the creation of three multidisciplinary thematic consortia dedicated to the prevention and treatment of gambling addiction.
Three strategic areas for effective action
Each consortium will specialise in a key area:
- Vulnerable gamblers, characteristics of gambling and gambling behaviour.
- Prediction, risk factors, early detection and prevention.
- Practice – diagnosis, intervention and treatment.
Each consortium will have a five-year lifespan, allowing for long-term intervention and a gradual increase in knowledge.
Targeted and structured funding
The budget allocated to this initiative amounts to €8 million, distributed as follows:
- €2.5 million for work 1
- €2.5 million for work 2
- €3.0 million for work 3
In addition to this sum, there will be a €50,000 ‘start-up’ grant per consortium to help develop a strong application after an initial meeting phase.
Collaborate from the outset: call for registration
How will the process be organised? First, interested parties submit a pre-registration form to express their interest in participating in a consortium. ZonMw will then organise a collaborative workshop designed to promote networking and facilitate alliances between researchers, practitioners, user representatives, politicians, schools and other stakeholders.
Beyond research: structuring knowledge and strengthening partnerships
The aim of this initiative goes beyond simply producing knowledge: it also seeks to build a sustainable knowledge infrastructure, foster collaboration, including at international level, and support concrete action around high-impact projects. Several research approaches will be encouraged: from action research to translational medicine and practical intervention. Only purely fundamental approaches are not eligible. Ultimately, the plan is to create a global consortium, bringing together the three strands for maximum synergy.