Washington, D.C. – This week, DC Lottery celebrates the 40th anniversary of its founding. Since its inception on August 25, 1982, the Lottery has contributed billions in proceeds to the District of Columbia’s General Fund -- and has awarded over $4.4 billion in prizes to its players.

Over the past 40 years, DC Lottery has contributed financially to the success of the community in a variety of ways:

  • $473.4 million in commissions generated for DC Lottery retailers
  • $135 million raised through charitable gaming efforts
  • $2.3 billion in proceeds transferred to the District of Columbia’s General Fund in support of essential city services like education, public safety, and infrastructure

During the past two and a half years, DC Lottery stayed focused on maximizing revenue for the District despite challenges the pandemic posed. The agency transferred $48 million to D.C.’s General Fund for fiscal year 2021. This transfer was higher than the fiscal year 2019 transfer, which was the last full year prior to the start of the pandemic. Additionally, in 2020, DC Lottery launched two new, innovative product lines – its iLottery platform and sportsbook, GambetDC.

Throughout 2022, DC Lottery’s Journey to 40 has been commemorated with anniversary-themed scratcher tickets, a 2nd Chance contest, a celebratory video, virtual events, and branded swag. In addition, the agency plans to celebrate with the community and is planning an event scheduled for October 6.

“The last 40 years have given us many reasons to celebrate,” said Frank Suarez, DC Lottery’s Executive Director. “We thank our players, retailers, partners, local businesses, and nonprofits for allowing us to serve them over the past four decades.”

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ABOUT THE DC LOTTERY

Founded in 1982, the DC Lottery is charged with responsibly maximizing revenue generation for the District of Columbia by selling innovative lottery and sports wagering products while providing gaming regulation and charitable gaming activities.