News writer, Interviewer
The Kansas Lottery has officially entered the digital age with the fastest iLottery implementation in U.S. history. In just ten months, Kansas transformed from planning to launch, setting a new standard for digital lottery deployment nationwide.
Stephen Durrell, Executive Director of the Kansas Lottery, said:
Despite the inherent complexity of launching an iLottery program, the planning and implementation process went very smoothly.
What can Kansas players access now?
Starting immediately, Kansas residents can play popular draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions online at playonkansas.com. The initial launch includes nine eInstant games developed by Pollard Banknote's Digital Games Studio.
Local college sports fans will appreciate market-specific options like Jayhawk Riches and Wildcat Riches, which celebrate the rivalry between Kansas State University and University of Kansas athletic programs.
Built on existing loyalty framework
This digital expansion builds on the Lottery's PlayOn Loyalty Program, which has been in place since 2017. Existing members can easily upgrade their accounts to access the new online options. The loyalty program allows players to earn points by submitting retail tickets and completing various activities.
Expected financial impact
Kansas Lottery officials project the online expansion will generate an additional $10-20 million in annual revenue. These funds could help support a state fund designed to attract professional sports teams.
What's included (and what's not)
The online platform includes:
- Draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions
- eInstant games (digital scratch-offs)
- Regular new game releases (every two weeks)
Casino-style games like blackjack are specifically excluded from the online offerings.
The technology behind the launch
The system operates on Pollard Banknote's Catalyst Gaming Platform, a cloud-native, modular solution. The implementation features player management functionality, including account registration, age and identity verification, wallet transactions, and responsible gaming protections. Geolocation services are provided through proprietary GeoLocs technology, ensuring players are physically located within state boundaries when participating. The platform's integration with Bloomreach enables personalized marketing that engages players with relevant content and offers.
Historical context
Since beginning operations in November 1987, the Kansas Lottery has become a contributor to state finances, generating more than $2.2 billion in revenues transferred to the state while paying out nearly $4.4 billion in player prizes.
Retailers have earned over $450 million in commissions during this period. Most recently, the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, produced almost $338 million in sales, with more than $88 million transferred to state programs supporting economic development initiatives, prison projects, juvenile detention facilities, and problem gambling assistance.
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