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Championing the Right of All Tribes, Large and Small, to Thrive in the Transition to iGaming and Sports Betting – Montana Tribal Gaming Roadshow Recap

August 29, 2024

Montana Tribal Gaming Roadshow VLOG

As I wrap up the first leg of our Tribal Gaming Roadshow in Montana, I’m reminded of the incredible resilience and dedication of the tribal communities I’ve visited. My mission on this roadshow is clear: to ensure that tribes, no matter their size, maintain control over their gaming destinies as the industry shifts from traditional brick-and-mortar operations to the dynamic world of iGaming and sports betting. This transition is not just an opportunity; it’s essential to preserving tribal sovereignty in gaming across the United States.

Why Montana?

I chose to start this journey in Montana—a state known for its smaller tribes and tribal casinos. This was a deliberate decision. It’s crucial that every tribe, whether they oversee large gaming operations or smaller establishments, has the tools and knowledge to navigate the evolving gaming landscape. In Montana, I visited four tribal casinos, each with its unique challenges and aspirations, but all united in their commitment to securing their future in gaming.

My visits to these casinos were more than just meetings; they were opportunities to engage directly with tribal leaders and understand the specific needs of their communities. From the Gros Ventre and Assiniboine tribes at Fort Belknap Casino to the Blackfeet Tribe at Glacier Peaks Casino, each stop reinforced the importance of keeping pace with industry transitions. Whether discussing mobile on-premise Class II gaming or retail and mobile sports betting, my focus was on empowering these tribes to stay ahead of the curve.

The Importance of Sovereignty in Gaming

Tribal sovereignty is not just a concept—it’s the backbone of tribal gaming enterprises. By retaining control over their gaming operations, tribes can generate sustainable revenue streams, create jobs, and reinvest in their communities. However, as the industry moves towards digital platforms and sportsbooks, there’s a risk that tribes might lose this control by outsourcing these operations to third-party brands. This would not only diminish their sovereignty but also limit their ability to maximize the economic benefits of gaming.

My discussions in Montana emphasized the need for tribes to leverage their sovereignty to build and manage their iGaming and sports betting initiatives internally. This approach ensures that the profits from gaming remain within the community, allowing tribes to reinvest in their futures. The success of Betfred’s entry into the US market taught me the value of personal engagement and tailored solutions, a strategy I’m applying on this roadshow. By working closely with tribal leaders, I aim to deliver customized solutions that make gaming operations more efficient, profitable, and sustainable.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Arizona

As I prepare to head to Arizona, where I’ll engage with some of the larger tribes and casinos, the lessons learned in Montana will guide my approach. The goal remains the same: to empower all tribes, large and small, to thrive in this new era of gaming.

A Glimpse into the Future: BooRay and Beyond

While the focus of this roadshow has been on traditional gaming and the transition to digital platforms, it’s worth noting the potential for other table games to emerge in this space. Games like BooRay, which hold cultural significance and are gaining popularity, can also benefit from the insights gained during my visits. The transition from brick-and-mortar to digital is not limited to poker and sports betting; it’s paving the way for new games and experiences that can further enrich the gaming landscape. As I continue this journey, I remain committed to exploring these opportunities and ensuring that all tribes can leverage their gaming operations to their fullest potential.

In conclusion, the Montana leg of my Tribal Gaming Roadshow was more than just a series of visits; it was a reaffirmation of my commitment to tribal sovereignty and the empowerment of all tribes in the gaming industry. As I continue this journey, I look forward to the meaningful discussions and partnerships that lie ahead, ensuring that every tribe has the opportunity to lead and succeed in the ever-evolving world of gaming.

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