MGE Niagara Entertainment Inc. (MGE) has agreed to relinquish its exclusive casino gaming rights in the Niagara region, paving the way for Ontario to introduce new casino operators as part of its efforts to turn Niagara Falls into “Las Vegas North.”
The Ontario government has announced an agreement with MGE, a significant milestone in the province’s Destination Niagara Strategy, aimed at attracting new investments and developments to the region to boost Ontario’s economy.
MGE, a company controlled by the Mohegan tribe, operates both Fallsview Casino Resort and Casino Niagara in Niagara Falls. In Ontario, private-sector casino operators run land-based casino operations through agreements with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG), while OLG retains management of gaming operations.
End of Casino Exclusivity
“Niagara has always been a premier tourist destination in Ontario, and we are dedicated to unlocking its full potential to draw more visitors and investments for the years ahead,” stated Doug Downey, interim minister of tourism, culture, and gaming.
“Our government is establishing the groundwork for sustainable growth by leveraging the region’s strengths and creating new opportunities for businesses, workers, and communities in Niagara.”
Under agreements with OLG, operators are granted exclusive rights in the regions where they operate.
Potential for New Operators
OLG will commence a procurement process later in the year to seek out potential new gaming operators for the region.
“OLG and MGE are maintaining our strong partnership and shared commitment to the Niagara community,” said Duncan Hannay, president and CEO of OLG.
“We are eager about the possibilities ahead as we collaborate to realize the full potential of Niagara’s casino industry and the economic advantages it brings.”
Ontario’s Destination Niagara Strategy aims to generate an additional $3 billion in annual GDP, attract 25 million visitors, introduce new world-class attractions, boost local arts and culture, and rejuvenate the region’s transportation network.
Developing “Las Vegas North”
Transportation enhancements involve the expansion of the QEW’s Garden City Skyway bridge, a crucial link to the province’s highway network, as well as the three international bridge crossings in the Niagara region connecting to the U.S. and the rest of Ontario.
As previously reported in November 2025, Niagara District Airport is undergoing expansion to accommodate more flights from across Canada and the U.S., transitioning from a general aviation hub to a modern regional gateway with a $10 million investment from the province.
“Under the leadership of Premier Doug Ford, our government is making significant investments to streamline access to Niagara Falls for millions of tourists annually and provide them with exceptional travel destinations across the region,” stated Prabmeet Sarkaria, minister of transportation.