(PRESS RELEASE) -- Caesars Entertainment, Inc. announced the expansion of its existing partnership with three Wabanaki Nations: the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Mi’kmaq Nation and the Penobscot Nation, to include online casino gaming in Maine. The long-term agreement positions Caesars and its tribal partners for a potential iGaming launch in the state in 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
Under the expanded agreement, Caesars plans to bring a portfolio of three online casino brands to Maine: Caesars Palace Online Casino, Caesars Sportsbook & Casino and Horseshoe Online Casino. Each brand offers a distinct digital experience tailored to different player interests.
This expanded partnership builds on the successful launch of Caesars Sportsbook in Maine in 2023 and reflects the shared commitment between Caesars and the three Wabanaki Nations to deliver a best-in-class, responsible digital gaming experience while supporting tribal communities across the state. Caesars will invest in local workforce development by employing, training and developing members of each nation and will provide meaningful financial support to help fund tribal community programs and initiatives.
“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. 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.”
“Penobscot Nation is proud to continue and expand our partnership with Caesars as we look toward the future of online gaming in Maine,” said Chief Kirk Francis of the Penobscot Nation. “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. This next phase represents a meaningful opportunity to build on that foundation.”
“The Mi’kmaq Nation values the strong relationship we have built with Caesars and our fellow Wabanaki partners,” said Chief Sheila McCormack of the Mi’kmaq Nation. “Expanding into online casino gaming allows us to continue creating economic opportunities for our people while ensuring that any future platform is developed in a responsible, well-regulated manner that benefits the tribes and the state.”
“The Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians is pleased to deepen our partnership with Caesars as we prepare for the next chapter of gaming in Maine,” said Chief Clarissa Sabattis of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians. “This long-term agreement reflects our shared commitment to strengthening Maine’s rural communities and is vital to the Houlton Band’s self-determination and economic self-sufficiency. Internet gaming revenues will provide our tribal government with a more secure, long-term source of revenue that will help us provide essential services and make critical investments in community infrastructure.”
Caesars’ online casino platforms will bring a premier digital entertainment experience to Maine, combining an expansive portfolio of slot titles, table games and live dealer offerings, subject to regulatory approvals, with seamless technology and user-friendly design. Each brand is tailored to meet different player preferences while upholding Caesars’ high standards for quality and Responsible Gaming. The platforms in Maine will integrate with Caesars Sportsbook and feature a single login and wallet experience, powered by Caesars’ Universal Digital Wallet, enabling seamless play across Caesars’ digital offerings.
Integrated with Caesars Rewards, the company’s industry-leading loyalty program, eligible play will unlock Reward Credits that can be redeemed for unforgettable experiences across Caesars’ destinations nationwide, including stays, dining, entertainment and more.
Caesars Entertainment is an industry leader in Responsible Gaming, known for pioneering Responsible Gaming awareness and education. In 1989, Caesars became the first commercial casino company to address problem gambling by launching the industry’s first Responsible Gaming program, Project 21. Today, the Company’s commitment to ensuring all players are aware of Responsible Gaming resources remains steadfast and spans all of Caesars’ digital platforms and world-class destinations in which it operates. Caesars Entertainment proudly enforces an enhanced 21+ gaming policy that prevents individuals under the age of 21 from using Caesars Rewards and restricts access to its gaming products for individuals under the age of 21.
In March 2024, Caesars Sportsbook received the prestigious RG Check accreditation from the Responsible Gambling Council in Ontario, Canada, which recognizes companies that achieve the highest standards for their Responsible Gaming practices. Just a few months later, the Company was awarded the National Council on Problem Gambling’s award for Corporate Social Responsibility.