Determining an organization’s eligibility for lottery licensing involves several steps and licensing officials must make eligibility decisions on a case-by-case basis by considering the specific circumstances of each organization. For more information please read our Quick Information Guide. Licensing officials must also determine the eligible use of proceeds for each organization.
Licences are only issued for the following charitable reasons:
- The relief of poverty;
- The advancement of education;
- The advancement of religion;
- Other charitable purposes that benefit the community.
An organization must demonstrate how it has carried out charitable activities that benefit Ontario residents in a way that is consistent with its mandate for at least one year. If applying for subsequent licences, the organization must be in compliance with previous reporting requirements.
Filling out the Lottery Licensing Eligibility Application is the first step in being considered as a possible eligible lottery group. (Note: An individual is not eligible for a lottery licence.)