Effective September 20, 2024, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) updated the 50/50 framework to permit charities to split the 50% prize pot between multiple winners.
Previously, the AGCO’s 50/50 raffles framework only permitted splitting gross sales equally between the charity and a single winner. This updated framework provides additional fundraising opportunities for charitable or not-for-profit organizations supporting charitable objectives.
Eligible charities who wish to conduct a 50/50 Split the Pot raffle must apply for a 50/50 raffle license and indicate their intent to conduct the raffle as a 50/50 Split the Pot during the application process.
Municipalities have the authority to issue lottery licenses to eligible organizations and groups within the community, including charitable organizations for raffles with a total prize value of less than $50,000, including 50/50 draws.