Albany – The New York Gaming Association (NYGA) stands as a powerful engine for New York’s economy, driving significant contributions to job creation, education funding, and local development. Representing a diverse array of gaming and racing venues across the state, the NYGA not only influences the state’s fiscal health but also provides opportunities for local, small, and domestic businesses to engage in service and product contracts within the casino and sports gaming industries.
The NYGA’s membership includes some of the most prominent names in the gaming and entertainment industries across New York, from Resorts World Casino New York City to Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts, Finger Lakes Gaming & Racetrack, and Saratoga Casino Hotel, among others. These venues span from Long Island to Western New York, with each playing a vital role in driving economic growth and ensuring the sustainability of local communities.
Among the association’s flagship members is Resorts World Casino New York City, owned by Genting Group, the world’s largest destination casino operator. With over 5,000 slot and table game machines, Resorts World serves as a major tourism and entertainment hub, contributing significantly to New York’s economy. Other major contributors like Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts and Saratoga Casino Hotel have also seen substantial growth in recent years, both in their operations and their community contributions.
The economic influence of NYGA members is profound. In 2024, member facilities generated an economic impact of $3.4 billion, contributing $1.06 billion directly to New York’s educational system, thereby enhancing public schools across the state. The association also generates substantial additional revenue for state and local governments while supporting breeders, family farmers, and small businesses.
The NYGA’s direct economic impact extends beyond financial contributions. Collectively, its members employ over 5,000 workers, with an annual payroll exceeding $260 million. Additionally, these businesses support 22,000 indirect jobs, spanning various sectors, including retail, hospitality, and supply chain management.
Since the state authorized video lottery terminals (VLTs) in 2004, NYGA members have generated more than $14.2 billion for education, reinforcing their critical role in funding New York’s schools and contributing to the state’s fiscal health.
Local, small, and domestic businesses are encouraged to explore service and product contract opportunities within the casino and sports gaming industry. With the NYGA’s extensive network of current operations and future proposed projects, there are numerous pathways for these businesses to participate in the growing sector.
For businesses interested in becoming part of the gaming industry, contacting casino operations directly is an excellent first step. NYGA members regularly engage with local suppliers, service providers, and contractors, offering a wide range of opportunities to contribute to casino operations and sports gaming initiatives. New York’s commitment to supporting Small, Minority, and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs), as well as Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (SDVOBs), creates even more avenues for local businesses to tap into the expanding industry.
The growth of casinos and proposed projects, including new developments and expansions, presents exciting opportunities for service providers and product manufacturers to become integral parts of the gaming ecosystem. Whether through construction, technology solutions, food and beverage services, or security, the potential for small businesses to secure contracts with NYGA members is substantial.
The gaming industry’s influence on job creation is a cornerstone of its impact. In addition to direct employment, NYGA members contribute to a thriving workforce, offering high-quality jobs with competitive pay and benefits. The association’s members have created over 5,000 direct jobs in various roles, from casino operations to customer service, hospitality, and management. The $260 million in annual payroll directly supports workers in communities throughout New York.
Moreover, NYGA’s facilities indirectly support 22,000 additional jobs, demonstrating the expansive ripple effect that the gaming industry has across multiple sectors of the economy.
The NYGA’s leadership continues to evolve with the appointment of Phil Boyle, President/CEO of Suffolk OTB and Jake’s 58 Hotel & Casino, as the new Chairperson. Boyle brings over 30 years of public service experience to the role, including a decade as a New York State Senator. His leadership is expected to enhance the NYGA’s influence in advocating for policies that promote sustainable growth, new business opportunities, and responsible gaming.
Boyle’s vision for the NYGA is clear: to continue championing the interests of its members, fostering job growth, and ensuring that the gaming industry remains a vital contributor to the state’s economic development.
The future of the NYGA is marked by continued growth and opportunity. With current operations and proposed projects creating avenues for local businesses, NYGA members will remain a cornerstone of New York’s economy. The association’s dedication to community engagement, job creation, and local business involvement ensures that its growth benefits not just the gaming industry but also the people and businesses of New York State.
By capitalizing on the opportunities available through the NYGA, local businesses, including MWBEs and SDVOBs, have a chance to become an integral part of one of the state’s most dynamic and lucrative industries. As the industry grows, so too will the opportunities for businesses to contribute, thrive, and help shape New York’s economic future.
For more information on joining the NYGA network or exploring partnership opportunities, businesses can contact the respective casino operations directly or visit the NYGA website at www.newyorkgaming.org.
