FanDuel Recognized as Major UNCF Partner, Supporting HBCU Students During Crisis

When a student faces an unexpected crisis—a housing emergency, broken laptop, or an inability to afford textbooks—the path to graduation can suddenly seem insurmountable.

For thousands of students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), FanDuel's partnership with the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) has become a lifeline in these critical moments. What began as a $1 million commitment in 2021 has evolved into a $4.2 million investment in the futures of HBCU students.

This year, FanDuel received the 2026 UNCF Corporate Keeper of the Flame Award, an honor that reflects the company's growing role as a leading corporate partner in educational equity.

Keita Young, Vice President of Advocacy & Public Policy, accepted the award on behalf of FanDuel at the 82nd UNCF "A Mind Is…" Gala in Washington, DC on March 5th.

As a HBCU graduate herself (Spelman College), Young spoke passionately about her pride in being part of a company dedicated to this cause:

"This recognition is meaningful because it reflects a shared commitment—a commitment to access, opportunity, and the belief that education remains one of the most powerful forces for transformation in our communities," said Young.

About UNCF

The UNCF is the nation's largest and most effective minority education organization. Founded in 1944, UNCF has raised more than $5 billion to help over 500,000 students earn college degrees at HBCUs and other institutions. The organization supports students through scholarships, internships, and emergency aid programs.

With the motto "A mind is a terrible thing to waste," UNCF works to ensure that every student has access to a quality education and the opportunity to achieve their full potential, regardless of their financial circumstances.

"The commitment of FanDuel provides crucial financial assistance, igniting students' aspirations to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential,” said Maurice E. Jenkins, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer at UNCF.

FanDuel’s Support

UNCF's emergency student aid program, funded by FanDuel, rushes support to students in urgent need—covering everything from housing and technology to food, tuition, supplies, and other education-related costs. These aren't luxuries; they're the essentials that keep students enrolled and on track toward their degrees.

Approximately 2,610 students have received support through FanDuel-funded emergency grants to date.

"We're always looking for ways to make a positive impact in the communities in which we operate our sportsbook," said Christian Genetski, President of FanDuel.

FanDuel’s contribution helps students attending HBCUs in Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, and North Carolina, providing assistance that can mean the difference between staying in school and dropping out.

FanDuel’s Growing Commitment

FanDuel's journey with UNCF began in 2021 with a $1 million grant to support students enrolled in five Virginia HBCUs. The company's dedication to educational equity has grown substantially since then:

• 2022: FanDuel expanded the partnership with a $1.15 million grant for students enrolled in four Maryland HBCUs and created an internship opportunity at its New York headquarters.
• 2024: FanDuel doubled down on its investment in students and HBCUs, providing $1.15 million in emergency student aid for students enrolled in two Ohio HBCUs and another $1.15 million for students attending 11 HBCUs in North Carolina.

“Partnerships like the one we share with UNCF allow us to invest not just in students, but in future leaders, innovators, and change-makers that only enhance communities,” said Keita Young.

The 2026 UNCF Corporate Keeper of the Flame Award recognizes FanDuel's role as a responsible corporate citizen dedicated to creating meaningful change in the lives of HBCU students.

Visit fanduel.com/about/community-commitment to learn more about FanDuel's community impact initiatives.