Indigenous Casinos in Canada

The pivotal moment for Indigenous casinos was in 1996. That’s when Saskatchewan’s First Nations Gaming Act granted indigenous communities the right to regulate gambling establishments on their lands. These First Nation casinos also must comply with the regulations enforced by their respective provinces.

It was also established that Indigenous casinos in Canada are operated by one of three models:

• A group of First Nations can apply for a provincial gaming license as a non-profit entity.
• They can establish a formal agreement with the host province to operate a casino.
• They can obtain a non-charitable gaming license through a provincially-approved licensing body to conduct gambling activities on their lands.

This framework allows the regulation and development of Indigenous-run casinos. It ensures that they adhere to both provincial and federal rules. At the same time, it also increases economic opportunities within Indigenous communities.

To help you decide where to play, we’ve researched the Indigenous casinos spread across several Canadian provinces. We've provided an overview for each province and attached a list of the most notable Indigenous land-based casinos.

Alberta

First Nations gaming facilities in Alberta operate with the Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC) issued license. With 27 First Nation casinos in Alberta, we’ve selected the most popular ones worth visiting.

Manitoba

Indigenous casinos in Manitoba are licensed by the Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries corporation. First Nations have settled agreements with the organization to manage casinos on their land. The revenue aids numerous community initiatives.

Ontario

With renowned casinos like Rama, Ontario boasts a strong Indigenous gaming presence. These casinos operate under the supervision of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG).

Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, locals and tourists have a variety of casinos to choose from, including the indigenous casinos operated by Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA). They are regulated by Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) and offer gaming in different areas of the Saskatchewan province.

British Columbia

Although, more modest-sized than in other provinces, British Columbia also has few Indigenous community operated casinos. They are regulated and licensed by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC).

Besides providing entertainment, casino establishments run by Indigenous communities make significant contributions. They positively impact the social, economic, and cultural aspects of First Nations.

• Employment: Casinos require proper infrastructure, from building the complexes to providing casino operations. This creates opportunities for new jobs and improves the employment rate of indigenous communities.
• Contribution to culture and heritage: Although most of these casinos are commercial, many dedicate part of their profits to First Nation charities. It can include donations to cultural programs and events.
• Boosted tourism: Casinos attract tourists, both local and from overseas. In addition to gambling, they spend money on accommodation, retail, and dining.

Regarding profits made by First Nation casinos in Canada, Saskatchewan rates just sixth, with Alberta and Ontario holding their first places, and Manitoba and British Columbia also following with the ratings. Alberta's leading position isn't shocking since there are over two dozen gambling spots in this province, including six First Nation casinos.