Charitable lottery events (e.g., raffles, break open tickets, bingo events, etc.) can be an exciting way help local non-profit and community organizations raise funds for important programs, services, and initiatives that directly benefit residents and strengthen the community! When properly regulated, these events provide an engaging way for the public to support charitable causes. However, in Ontario, lottery events must be licensed by either the Alcohol & Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), or an authorized licensing authority, such as a municipality. Where applicable, the Township is happy issue Lottery Licences to help ensure that these events are conducted fairly, legally, and in a manner that benefits the community.
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Pursuant to Chapter 1.4.1 of the AGCO's Lottery Licensing Policy Manual, the Township can issue Lottery Licences for specific events, and to charitable organizations. In order to be eligible for a municipally-issued Lottery Licence, a charitable organization must demonstrate that they meet the criteria of at least one (1) of the following categories of mandates:
- Relief of Poverty;
- Advancement of Education;
- Advancement of Religion; or,
- Other
Before an organization can be granted a Lottery Licence in the Township of Guelph/Eramosa, they must prove that they meet the criteria for an eligible organization under the AGCO's Lottery Licensing Policy Manual. You can submit an Eligibility Application using the online portal below! This application is free of charge.
Once the Township has confirmed your organization meet the necessary criteria, you will receive a Letter of Eligibility. This letter is valid for two (2) years, and will allow you to apply for Lottery Licences in the Township as long as it is active.
NOTE: The Township is only able to issue Lottery Licences, and Letters of Eligibility, to charitable organizations, as defined in the AGCO's Lottery Licensing Policy Manual. Groups or individuals who do not meet the criteria for being a charitable organization should reach out to the AGCO using the link attached here.
Looking to host a lottery event? If you have received a Letter of Eligibility within the last two (2) years, you may be ready to proceed straight to the application.
To learn more about the Lottery Licence process in Ontario, you can:
Before you can receive a Lottery Licence in the Township of Guelph/Eramosa, organizations must demonstrate they are an eligible organization under the guidelines issued in the AGCO's Lottery Licence Policy Manual. Interested groups can submit a Lottery Licence Eligibility Application using the application portal below to have their eligibility confirmed. Please be advised that the review process for a Lottery Licence Eligibility Application may take one (1) to two (2) weeks.