Caesars and Three Wabanaki Nations expand relationship to include planned Maine online casino launch
Expanded partnership builds on sports betting collaboration
Caesars Entertainment is expanding 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.”
