AGCO Announces Significant Updates to Charitable Lottery Licensing Policies
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The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has introduced several key updates to its charitable lottery licensing policies, aimed at fostering innovation and reducing administrative burden for charitable organizations throughout 2025.
Overview of Policy Changes
Effective January 8, 2025, eligible charitable organizations may now apply to offer:
- Subscription-based electronic raffle ticket sales with automatic billing
- Electronic raffle tickets using a single number for multiple draw entries
- A new combined Break Open Ticket (BOT+) format that integrates traditional BOTs with raffles or additional BOTs on a single charitable gaming ticket
E-Raffle Subscription Policy
The AGCO has updated both the Lottery Licensing Policy Manual and Electronic Raffle Systems Minimum Technical Standards to permit subscription-based electronic raffle ticket sales with automatic billing functionality.
Key Requirements
Charitable organizations implementing subscription-based models must:
Provide clear and transparent billing policies
Ensure subscriptions are opt-in only (not default)
Notify players in advance of automatic payment processing
Offer easily accessible opt-out options
Include detailed subscription features in the rules of play submitted to AGCO
Ensure all lottery activities are conducted and managed within Ontario
The Lottery Licensing Policy Manual has been amended to include a new section 5.3.1(A)(xiii) specifically addressing Electronic Raffle Subscriptions, with corresponding updates to the Electronic Raffle Systems Minimum Technical Standards.
Single Number Multi-Chance E-Raffle Feature
The AGCO has also updated the Electronic Raffle Operational Terms and Conditions and the Electronic Raffle Systems Minimum Technical Standards to permit a new technical solution for electronic raffle sales.
Implementation Details
The Single Number Multi-Chance feature simplifies the process of selling multiple raffle entries by:
- Assigning a single raffle number to each purchase transaction
- Entering that number into the draw multiple times based on the quantity purchased
- Maintaining the same statistical probability of winning as with individual ticket numbers
For example, if a player purchases 500 entries and is assigned raffle ticket number “1,” that number is entered into the draw 500 times.
Important compliance notes:
- Both portions of the ticket must clearly indicate the number of times the ticket number was entered into the draw
- Organizations must update their rules of play to implement this feature
- Organizations may continue to sell entries with individual ticket numbers if preferred
BOT+ Charitable Gaming Opportunity
The AGCO is introducing a new combined charitable gaming opportunity that allows eligible organizations to offer a single ticket containing a Break Open Ticket (BOT) and up to two additional games (either BOT or raffle).
Licensing Requirements
Organizations must:
- Apply for individual licenses for each game included on the BOT+ ticket
- Follow the new BOT+ Terms and Conditions and all related policies for included games
- Obtain all licenses directly from the AGCO (not municipal authorities)
The new BOT+ Terms and Conditions specify:
- Which BOT and raffle games are eligible for combination
- Ticket sales requirements
- How to properly allocate prize amounts, proceeds, expenses, and reporting for each game component
Collaborative Fundraising Opportunities
The AGCO has also provided clarity on existing policies that allow charitable organizations to collaborate on fundraising events, including online raffles, with shared proceeds. Benefits of such collaboration include:
- Expanded donor reach
- Broader appeal through multiple charitable purposes
- Potential for larger prizes and lottery events
- Shared resources and administrative responsibilities
Additional Resources and Contact Information
For detailed guidance, organizations are encouraged to consult:
- The AGCO’s Checklist for a Successful Electronic Raffle
- Information Bulletin: Providing Clarity to Charities on Collaborative Fundraising Opportunities in Ontario
- BOT+ Terms and Conditions on the AGCO website
For charitable gaming inquiries, organizations may email an AGCO Eligibility Officer at lottery.licensing@agco.ca or call AGCO Customer Service at 1-800-522-2876, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
