In the first instance, the licensing authority will review all relevant documentation to determine eligibility for lottery licences. These decisions are based on what is considered charitable in law, including the Criminal Code of Canada, previous court decisions, Order in Council 1413/08 as amended, and the policies issued by the Registrar of Alcohol, Gaming and Racing.

The courts have determined that the term “charitable” refers to organizations which provide programs for:

• the relief of poverty;
• the advancement of education;
• the advancement of religion;
• other charitable purposes beneficial to the community.

Each application is unique. Determinations of eligibility will depend on the specific organization and its proposed use of proceeds.

The following pre-requisites are mandatory to be considered eligible for a lottery licence:

• Organizations must have been in existence for at least one (1) year before being considered eligible for lottery licences.
• The organization must have a place of business in Ontario, demonstrate that it is established to provide charitable services in Ontario and use proceeds for objects or purposes which benefit Ontario residents.