Caesars Entertainment will expand its partnerships with Wabanaki Nations in Maine to offer its online casino products once the state is ready to launch iGaming.
Key Takeaways
- Caesars expanded partnerships that began in 2023 with online sports betting.
- Three Caesars platforms will launch in Maine.
- The law for online casinos goes into effect in July.
The gaming company announced the agreement with the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Mi’kmaq Nation, and the Penobscot Nation on Wednesday. Caesars first partnered with the three Wabanaki tribes in 2023 to become a Maine sports betting operator.
State law requires gaming operators to partner with tribal nations.
“As we look ahead to the launch of online casino gaming in Maine, we’re proud to expand our partnership with the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Mi’kmaq Nation, and the Penobscot Nation,” said Eric Hession, president of Caesars Digital. “Together, we’ve built a strong and responsible sports wagering experience, and this next phase reinforces our commitment to our tribal partners and to delivering a differentiated, localized digital gaming experience for Mainers.”
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Tribal support
The Las Vegas-based gaming and hospitality company said it plans to offer online slots, table games, and live dealer games through Caesars Palace Online Casino, Caesars Sportsbook & Casino, and Horseshoe Online Casino.
Caesars says the expansion into Maine online casino will allow the company to invest in the local workforce and provide financial support to tribal communities.
“Our experience working together on sports wagering has demonstrated the value of aligning with a partner that respects our sovereignty, understands our communities, and is committed to long-term success for the Wabanaki Nations,” Chief Kirk Francis of the Penobscot Nation said. “This next phase represents a meaningful opportunity to build on that foundation.”
Expanding to 8
Maine became the eighth state to authorize online casino operations in January, giving tribal partners Caesars and DraftKings exclusive iGaming operating rights. Gov. Janet Mills agreed to allow LD1164 to become law July 15.
An exact launch date has not been announced, but Caesars shouldn’t need much time to be up and running once it receives final regulatory approval. The online operator already offers iGaming in New Jersey, Michigan, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
“We’re grateful to Gov. Janet Mills, the Maine Legislature, and the Maine Gambling Control Unit for their continued leadership and thoughtful approach to gaming in the state,” Hession said.
