impact
Tribal gaming fosters economic development – not only for tribal communities, but for all Minnesotans. This is especially true in rural areas, where tribal gaming operations are often the largest area employer. Indian gaming strengthens local economies by providing jobs, supporting local vendors through the purchase of goods and services, boosting tourism, constructing casinos and hospitality facilities, and generating new tax revenues through supporting secondary economic activities. Gaming enterprises and tribal development provide long-term stability in rural areas. The economic development that is boosted by Indian gaming generates increased investments and job opportunities that can sustain local economies.
Minnesota’s Indian gaming enterprises are major entertainment destinations that:
- Employ tens of thousands of Minnesotans and strengthen local economies
- Support thousands of local vendors and boost tourism
- Contribute millions in payroll taxes each year
See the real-world impact tribal gaming has on local and state economies:
Lady Luck Estates
Many tribes are working tirelessly to address housing issues, including housing availability and affordability, not only within their communities, but across Minnesota. The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe and Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures (MLCV) joined with project partner Travois and investor Red Stone Equity Partners to create a new, 28-unit townhome development in Hinckley, Minnesota.
Lady Luck Estates provides quality, affordable housing for hard-working families.
Lady Luck Estates is closely connected to job opportunities, including Grand Casino Hinkley – the largest employer in Pine County – and is strategically located to help minimize transportation costs and be in proximity to other key services for tenants. This investment in affordable housing shows how Indian gaming in Minnesota can create jobs while also addressing the housing crisis.
“We’re proud to meet the demand for affordable housing, which is a foundation to further economic development in the region.”
Joe Nayquonabe
Chief Executive Officer of Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures
Driving the local economy
With approximately 4,100 employees, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) and SMSC Gaming Enterprise, including Mystic Lake Casino Hotel and Little Six Casino, are collectively the largest employer in Scott County. From a tribal garden and fitness center to hotels and family entertainment centers, the SMSC drives the local economy with opportunities for meaningful work in a wide range of careers. In addition to directly employing thousands in Scott and Dakota counties, the SMSC partners with more than 2,000 vendors within a 25-mile radius, paying approximately $300 million to vendors annually.
“The SMSC is committed to building positive relationships and finding common ground with our neighbors. The Dakota people have a common expression ‘Mitakuye Owasin,’ which means, ‘We are all related.’ We are all interconnected, and we all benefit from strong partnerships that further build on our role as a community and economic leader.”
Keith B. Anderson
SMSC Chairman