Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention's educational sessions are a great opportunity to hear the latest updates, insights, and strategies that will improve your operation. Explore the full 2026 conference agenda!

 

Monday, March 30 conference sessions are only available with Super Platinum Plus Passes or as an optional add-on package.

Tuesday, March 31 conference sessions are only available with Super Platinum Plus or Platinum Plus Passes.

Wednesday, April 1 and Thursday, April 2 conference sessions are available for all attendees.

2026 Conference Agenda

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01:00 PM
  1. 1A & 1B
    55 mins
    Prediction markets moved from the margins into the center of national wagering debates by exploiting regulatory ambiguity. Platforms like Kalshi expanded as the Commodity Futures Trading Commission fa …
02:00 PM
  1. 1A & 1B
    60 mins
    Prediction markets are reshaping the legal definition of gambling by framing wagers on real-world events as financial instruments. By treating event-based contracts as derivatives rather than bets, th …
03:00 PM
  1. 1A & 1B
    55 mins
    Tribes must shift from reactive litigation to coordinated, forward-looking action. As prediction markets expand, waiting for courts or regulators to act increases risk and weakens leverage. Building u …
04:00 PM
  1. 1A & 1B
    60 mins
    Tribes can expand the response beyond Indian Country by engaging states, attorneys general, regulators, and aligned industry and policy organizations. Identifying shared interests around consumer prot …
09:00 AM
  1. 4
    60 mins
    As marketing shifts toward data and personalization, tribal casinos face a key question: does precision come at the cost of reach? This panel examines why digital-first strategies do not always delive …
  2. 1A & 1B
    60 mins
    This panel examines how modern table game technology is reshaping the floor for tribal and Class II operators. Topics include innovations that attract new players, increase game efficiency, reduce lab …
  3. 2
    60 mins
    Wisconsin’s hub and spoke model offers a practical framework for expanding sports betting while respecting tribal control and existing gaming agreements. Built on a centralized platform supported by m …
  4. 10
    60 mins
    This showcase session examines WarHorse Casino as a case study in entering a newly authorized gaming market. Panelists walk through the path from voter approval to operations, highlighting regulatory …
  5. 22
    60 mins
    Join the NIGC Leadership team for an in-depth discussion covering the latest agency updates, common violations of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), and other emerging issues affecting the indus …
  6. 7A
    60 mins
    AI is everywhere in gaming, yet most casino leaders are still asking a very practical question: How do we know when it’s actually working? This panel brings together tribal casino CEOs to share how th …
  7. 3
    60 mins
    Internal controls should protect gaming integrity without slowing operations or becoming outdated. As the industry evolves, many controls no longer reflect current risks. This session examines how tri …
  8. 7B
    60 mins
    Training the next generation of tribal leaders is essential, not just in the gaming industry or the gaming side of the enterprise; rather, across the enterprise, giving the next generation the skills …
  9. 9
    60 mins
    Security and surveillance are foundational to gaming operations, yet many programs still rely on outdated, reactive models. This session examines how modern surveillance can evolve into proactive risk …
  10. 8
    60 mins
    Blockchain’s entry into gaming began with prediction markets that use cryptocurrency and smart contracts to wager on real-world outcomes. What started as a niche experiment has evolved into a full tec …
10:00 AM
  1. 2
    60 mins
    Sports betting exchanges allow customers to wager against each other rather than against a sportsbook, creating a market where odds are set by supply and demand. This session explains how exchange wag …
  2. 7A
    60 mins
    Class II is a cornerstone of Indian gaming’s success, yet new online commercial products now mimic its functionality and challenge tribal exclusivity in multiple markets. At the same time, Class II on …
  3. 22
    60 mins
    This course will focus on cloud-based computing, what it is, how it is being utilized in gaming, and technical and regulatory challenges to consider before, during, and after incorporating cloud-based …
  4. 1A & 1B
    60 mins
    Both Marketing and Player Development are essential to driving revenue, guest engagement, and brand loyalty. But while their goals may have some overlap, their methods, mindsets, and metrics are funda …
  5. 3
    60 mins
    Tribal gaming regulators carry the critical responsibility of ensuring compliance across federal, state, and tribal frameworks while protecting the integrity of gaming. This session examines the curre …
  6. 9
    60 mins
    Cyber threats targeting Tribal gaming enterprises are growing more sophisticated - but they STILL target the most basic of cybersecurity defenses. In this session, we’ll bring real-world expertise fro …
  7. 4
    60 mins
    For decades, direct mail has been a powerful driver of casino visitation. Today, its impact increases when it is connected to digital channels and supported by automation. This panel shares the story …
    Speakers
  8. 8
    60 mins
    Advancing the discussion of last year’s popular session, it has been more than a year since the Department of the Interior's amendments to 25 CFR Part 293 have been in effect and the impact has been f …
11:00 AM
  1. 2
    60 mins
    Attendees will gain exclusive insights into how tribal casinos are leveraging partnerships with professional sports teams and event venues to create unforgettable fan experiences. They will discover h …
  2. 1A & 1B
    60 mins
    We will provide a comprehensive overview of marketing and operational best practices specific to Native American gaming enterprises. Attendees will gain insights into strategic player development, loy …
  3. 10
    60 mins
    NCAI defines workforce development as targeted education, training, and support that equip Native people with skills, credentials, and opportunities to achieve self-sufficiency and strengthen their co …
  4. 7A
    60 mins
    As tribal gaming navigates AI, data analytics, and digital engagement, the biggest hurdle to progress isn't typically the technology itself… it’s how organizations prepare their teams to champion thes …
  5. 4
    60 mins
    This discussion explores how strategic marketing collaboration between suppliers and operators drives stronger launches, higher engagement, and sustained performance. Panelists will share best practic …
  6. 9
    60 mins
    Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT expense for tribal casinos. It is a financial strategy that directly affects revenue stability, insurance premiums, borrowing costs, regulatory exposure, and long …
  7. 22
    60 mins
    This session demonstrates how AI can serve as an innovative and technology partner in developing TICs (Tribal Internal Controls) and SICs (Standard Internal Controls) under NIGC guidelines. Participan …
02:00 PM
  1. 10
    60 mins
    Tribally-owned cannabis businesses continue to grow and expand throughout the United States despite challenging markets. This session will explore why these cannabis businesses succeed and under what …
  2. 4
    60 mins
    The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and debate around the casino media mix has grown. Some view traditional channels as outdated and costly. Others see them as proven, reliable drivers of tr …
    Speakers
  3. 3
    60 mins
    Effective vendor oversight is critical to maintaining operational integrity, regulatory compliance, and public trust in tribal gaming. This session examines best practices for evaluating, licensing, a …
  4. 2
    60 mins
    Tribes considering interactive and land-based propositions face strategic decisions that require careful planning and operational readiness. This session outlines key considerations for preparing busi …
  5. 1A & 1B
    60 mins
    Casinos have expanded beyond gaming to include hotels, dining, entertainment, and other amenities designed to attract and retain guests. Today, these ancillary facilities are expected to generate prof …
  6. 22
    60 mins
    In this session you will hear from experienced Tribal Gaming regulators who will share industry best practices and process improvements they've made to their Environment, Public Health and Safety (EPH …
  7. 9
    60 mins
    Cyber incidents are no longer hypothetical for tribal casinos. This session focuses on what happens after a breach, when leadership decisions determine the speed of recovery and financial impact. As A …
03:00 PM
  1. 7B
    60 mins
    Smaller tribal casino markets face growing pressure to deliver compelling entertainment while managing limited budgets and regional demand. This session examines how tribes can develop affordable, hig …
  2. 3
    60 mins
    Do your operations teams think about and contribute to AML Compliance Efforts?  How is your relationship with the Tribal Gaming Commission?  Silos put your AML Compliance Program at Risk.  From Slots, …
  3. 4
    60 mins
    For smaller tribal casinos with limited hotel inventory, selling every room is not the goal — selling rooms to the right players is. This session explores how capacity-constrained casino hotels can us …
  4. 22
    60 mins
    This course explores the critical role of systems in tribal gaming operations and why they matter. Since the use of systems is a daily occurrence in nearly all tribal gaming environments, understandin …
  5. 1A & 1B
    60 mins
    This session isn’t about HR — it’s about performance. As organizations head into 2026 facing tighter resources, ongoing workforce challenges, and increased competition for guests, treating HR as the c …
  6. 10
    60 mins
    Tariffs are reshaping costs for FF&E and construction well before impacts appear on budgets. This session offers practical insight into how current tariffs affect materials, furnishings, procurement, …
  7. 9
    60 mins
    Attendees will experience a live demonstration of the most advanced cheating methods currently targeting casinos worldwide. From camera-assisted schemes and micro-communication devices to emerging car …
04:00 PM
  1. 10
    60 mins
    Tribal casino development is being reshaped by new construction technologies, materials, and delivery methods. This session examines how innovation is improving efficiency, flexibility, and long-term …
  2. 8
    60 mins
    Indigenous Nations, whether Tribes in the United States or First Nations in Canada, are sovereign governments. Their sovereignty includes the inherent authority to govern their lands, create laws, and …
  3. 9
    60 mins
    As casinos increase their reliance on technology, including AI-driven systems, cooperation and vigilance across management, security, surveillance, and regulatory teams become essential. This session …
  4. 22
    60 mins
    Participants will learn how to avoid enforcement actions through compliance. The course will provide participants with an overview of the IGRA requirements and explain how non-compliance with one or m …
  5. 4
    60 mins
    Tribal gaming operators face modest growth, rising costs, and pressure on traditional reinvestment models. In this environment, legacy marketing strategies can erode margins if left unchecked. This se …
  6. 7B
    60 mins
    The same technologies that power internet gambling can also be harnessed to deliver cutting-edge problem gambling prevention and treatment services. Learn how innovative providers are now combining ad …
  7. 3
    60 mins
    Tribal gaming leaders face growing pressure to balance compliance, technology, and long-term planning. Guided by the Seven Generations Principle, this session examines how regulatory and operational d …
  8. 2
    60 mins
    Format Muscogee Nation Gaming Enterprise launched the first Class II Mobile Slot App in the Apple App and Google Play stores. The panel of MNGE executives Jeff Brooks (CIO), Travis Thompson (CCO), and …
  9. 1A & 1B
    60 mins
    As casinos move toward cashless environments, digital wallets are reshaping how players interact with slot machines. This session examines the future of slots in a digital payments ecosystem, includin …
10:30 AM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    This seminar examines how artificial intelligence is reshaping the casino industry through personalized player engagement, consistent communication, real-time data capture, gifting optimization, and i …
12:30 PM
  1. 1050
    30 mins
    Last year’s passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill advanced key tribal tax parity priorities, including extending tax credits to families adopting Native children through tribal courts and raising the …
  2. 2951
    30 mins
    As electric vehicles become more prevalent and tobacco sales decline, the travel plaza industry is evolving. This panel will explore emerging trends, the advantages of operating travel plazas in India …
01:00 PM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    Casino & Gaming Operations(Secondary relevance: Workforce Development, Security & Game Protection, Guest Experience) Operational consistency is one of the most significant challenges—and greatest oppo …
01:30 PM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    How do you ascertain the effectiveness of all the money your casino spends on customer service, marketing, and advertising? By talking to your players and soliciting customer feedback.  This session w …
  2. 1050
    30 mins
    The Hozhonigo Institute is a Native-led nonprofit focused on expanding Tribal access to capital and infrastructure. In 2025, it launched the Tribal Funding Registry, a philanthropy-funded, free platfo …
  3. 1050
    30 mins
    Indian Country faces a critical election cycle in 2026, with significant implications for treaty rights, civil rights protections, and tribal representation. Native voting power has shifted outcomes i …
02:00 PM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    Description: After payroll, benefits is frequently the second highest operating cost for employers. In this session we will discuss ways to maximum your return on your benefits investment. We will rev …
03:00 PM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    Tribal gaming internal audits are becoming more complex as compliance expectations grow and cybersecurity and fraud risks evolve. Historically, auditors have relied on sampling, checklists, and retros …
03:30 PM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    This session will provide a comprehensive update on recent regulatory and compliance developments affecting accounting and taxation for Tribal Casinos. Key topics include: · An overview of GASB Statem …
04:00 PM
  1. 2951
    90 mins
    Casinos invest significant time and reinvestment into player events, promotions, and VIP experiences — yet many still plan these initiatives without fully accounting for player game preferences and sl …
04:30 PM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    This session showcases how automated technologies are transforming event centers and pool areas into flexible, multipurpose casino assets. By optimizing square footage, properties increase foot traffi …
10:00 AM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    With reputation moving at the speed of social media, every food and beverage interaction shapes guest perception. This session examines how casinos protect brand equity by aligning brand standards, mo …
10:30 AM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    In competitive markets, food and beverage offerings often drive loyalty more effectively than gaming rewards alone. This session explores how operators use dining access, targeted offers, and behavior …
11:00 AM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    As labor constraints continue, automation is shifting from experimentation to execution in casino food and beverage operations. This session examines real-world uses of robotics and AI, from back-of-h …
11:30 AM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    Volatile markets are forcing casino operators to manage costs more aggressively without eroding the guest experience. This session examines practical approaches to cost discipline across operations, m …
01:30 PM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    With a gaming floor of nearly 7,400 machines, ensuring game integrity is essential for regulatory compliance and public trust. Machine malfunctions can trigger player disputes, reputational harm, and …
02:00 PM
  1. 2951
    30 mins
    This talk focuses on building a culture where service excellence is consistent, intentional, and personal across the casino. It reframes each role as a daily performance centered on professionalism, t …