Yesterday, the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) published its financial results for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, revealing record-breaking profits that signal a robust recovery in the Indigenous-owned gaming sector.
The organization, which operates seven casinos across Saskatchewan, reported a net income of $97.8 million, representing a 16.4% increase from the previous fiscal year and surpassing pre-pandemic profit levels for the first time since 2019.
“These results reflect both the resilience of our operations and the strategic investments we’ve made in expanding our digital footprint,” said SIGA President and CEO Michael Dawson during yesterday’s announcement in Saskatoon. “We’ve managed to adapt to changing consumer preferences while staying true to our core mission of supporting First Nations communities.”
The financial windfall comes primarily from SIGA’s successful integration of online gaming options alongside its traditional casino operations. Digital gaming revenues grew by 43% year-over-year, contributing $28.5 million to the organization’s bottom line.
Traditional casino revenues also showed healthy increases, with table games up 7.2% and slot machine revenues rising 9.1% compared to fiscal 2023-2024. The Bear Claw Casino near Carlyle and Dakota Dunes Casino near Saskatoon were standout performers, with revenue increases of 12.3% and 11.8% respectively.
For perspective on these figures, I spoke with Regina-based gaming industry analyst Teresa Blackwell, who characterized SIGA’s performance as “exceptional even within the context of the broader recovery we’re seeing in the Canadian gaming sector.”
“What’s particularly impressive about these results is how SIGA has managed to grow both its traditional and digital operations simultaneously,” Blackwell noted. “Many operators have seen cannibalization when introducing online options, but SIGA appears to have expanded the overall market instead.”
The financial results carry significant implications for Saskatchewan’s 74 First Nations communities, which receive 50% of SIGA’s net profits through the First Nations Trust. Based on this year’s performance, approximately $48.9 million will flow to these communities, funding essential services, infrastructure, and economic development initiatives.
Chief Robert Standingwater of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) emphasized the impact of these funds during the announcement: “Gaming revenues represent one of the most significant sources of own-source income for our communities. These record profits translate directly into better housing, improved water infrastructure, and expanded educational opportunities.”
The Provincial Government of Saskatchewan also benefits, receiving 25% of net profits, with the remaining 25% distributed to Community Development Corporations that fund initiatives in regions where SIGA casinos operate.
SIGA’s workforce expansion also stands out in the financial report. The organization added 174 full-time equivalent positions during the fiscal year, bringing total employment to 2,087 people, with 67% of positions filled by individuals of First Nations heritage.
Looking at operational metrics, SIGA reported 4.2 million visits across its seven casinos during the fiscal year, an increase of 8.6% from the previous year. The organization invested $32.3 million in facility upgrades and technology improvements, including a comprehensive renovation of the Gold Eagle Casino in North Battleford.
The organization’s success comes despite increased competition from grey-market online gaming operators and inflation pressures that have affected discretionary spending in many sectors. SIGA attributes its resilience to strategic pricing, enhanced loyalty programs, and diversified entertainment offerings beyond gaming.
“We’ve expanded our non-gaming amenities significantly,” explained SIGA Chief Financial Officer Susan Johnson. “Food and beverage revenues increased 14.2% year-over-year, and our entertainment venues hosted 137 events that brought in visitors who might not otherwise visit our casinos.”
The financial report also highlights SIGA’s continued commitment to responsible gaming, with $3.2 million allocated to programs designed to prevent and address problem gambling. The organization implemented enhanced self-exclusion options on its digital platforms and expanded training for front-line staff to identify potential gambling issues.
Industry experts suggest SIGA’s success could serve as a template for other Indigenous-owned gaming operations across Canada. The organization has effectively balanced commercial objectives with its mandate to support community development, creating a sustainable model that generates significant economic and social benefits.
As SIGA looks toward fiscal 2025-2026, leadership has indicated plans to expand its digital gaming portfolio and explore potential partnerships with other First Nations gaming authorities. The organization has also announced a feasibility study for an eighth physical casino location, though details remain preliminary.
For Saskatchewan’s economy, SIGA’s performance represents a significant bright spot, with the organization now ranking as one of the province’s largest employers and a substantial contributor to tourism revenue. The $97.8 million in profits will circulate throughout the province, creating an economic multiplier effect that extends well beyond the gaming sector.
With these record-breaking results, SIGA continues to demonstrate that Indigenous-led businesses can deliver exceptional commercial performance while maintaining strong connections to community values and priorities—a balance that seems increasingly rare in today’s business landscape.
