IGT was selected as the preferred bidder for both contracts following the State's competitive procurement. The two contracts have commenced and allow for up to three one-year extensions. The Mississippi Lottery Corporation is expected to sell the first ticket no later than December 1, 2019.

"IGT's experience with providing leading technology, solutions, and services to startup lotteries is unparalleled, having helped 10 lotteries successfully begin their businesses in the U.S. since 1990. IGT will leverage our decades of experience and industry insights to help drive the success of the Mississippi Lottery Corporation, and to introduce compelling lottery entertainment throughout the State," said Jay Gendron, IGT Chief Operating Officer, Lottery. "IGT is committed to supporting the Lottery's short and long-term growth objectives by providing customized, high-performing back-office systems, tools that foster retailer and player engagement, strategic instant ticket development and production, and technology, games, and marketing support that establishes the Lottery as a reputable brand."

"We are thrilled to have IGT on board with the Mississippi Lottery Corporation," said Tom Shaheen, Mississippi Lottery Corporation President."We look forward to partnering with them in our effort as we pursue our mission of raising funds for roads and bridges throughout Mississippi."

The Mississippi Lottery Corporation will receive IGT's Aurora Platform and Retailer Pro, IGT's fastest and most innovative retailer-friendly draw-based lottery terminal. IGT's Retail Digital Media advertising display solution will be provided to stimulate brand awareness, winner awareness, and player recognition of jackpots and game activities, directly at the point-of-sale. The Lottery will leverage IGT's self-service point-of-sale devices including a combination of the GameTouch™ 28 vending machine for players to purchase instant tickets and the GameTouch™ 20 compact vending machine. 

As part of the instant ticket contract, IGT will implement its complete instant game supply chain solution, Instant Advantage™, which includes a tailored and strategic approach to the way IGT will design and print instant ticket games for the Lottery. Secure warehousing and distribution of instant tickets to lottery retailers will also be provided.

IGT will also deliver marketing support, field services, primary and back up data centers, call center operations, software support, and retailer training.

IGT has maintained a presence in Mississippi since 1992 through its gaming operation and helped open the first casino in the State. Along with hiring new employees from Mississippi, IGT will open a local office and a warehouse in the Greater Jackson area near the Mississippi Lottery Corporation headquarters to ensure collaboration, maximize efficiency, and address opportunities.