Academy events and revitalized scholarship program

2025 events organized and attended by WLA

The WLA organized 20 events, independently or in partnership with its Regional Association partners.

Through 7 virtual and 13 in-person events, the WLA covered the following topics:

• Security
• CSR and Responsible Gaming
• Marketing
• Sports Integrity
• Combating Illegal Operators
• WLA Certification

Highlighting the work of WLA Committees

In line with its strategic plan, the WLA shared the work of its Committees (BISHRC, CILBC, CSRC and SRMC) to deliver new initiatives, which also emphasized key industry topics, and showcased the different services available to members.

Building industry confidence through certification

Committed to continuously supporting its members in a process of ongoing improvement, the WLA provided clear and comprehensive information on the process and benefits of certification.

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In order to effectively expand the support provided to members, by exploring specificities unique to their markets, building synergies, and enhancing collaboration with regional partners, the WLA President and Executive Director participated in each Regional Association congress.

The World Lottery Summit

The WLA and host lottery, The Lottery Corporation, advanced preparations for the WLS 2026, which will take place at the Sydney International Convention Center (ICC) in Darling Harbor, including the business program and tradeshow, and the social program of opening and closing dinners at iconic venues.

2025 was a year rich in events and insights, with increased communication to members, via the new WLA resource and information hub news and blog sections, social media, and the weekly newsfeed.

WLA Academy expands events

The WLA Academy organizes webinars, seminars and trainings to keep members informed of global industry trends and updates, as well as provide best practices in a landscape that continues to evolve.

In line with the WLA strategic plan adopted in 2023, the Academy expanded its offerings. A first webinar on the fully online Global Lottery Data Compendium (launched in October 2024), showcased some of the Compendium’s new features, previously unavailable in the printed version, including:

• A currency converter
• Language options
• Heat maps
• Links to more data

The Compendium provides a clear picture of the global lottery and sports betting ecosystem and contributes to greater public understanding of the important role that state-authorized operators play in delivering funds for good causes in the areas of education, culture, sport, health, and other public benefits.

A thriving Scholarship Program

Additionally, the WLA organizes events with by Regional Associations partners: ALA, APLA, CIBELAE, EL and NASPL, held in the global regional, covering topics with a focus on the local landscape, trends and needs.

For the past 13 years, the WLA Scholarship program, supported by the Regional Associations, has provided a platform and financial support for member lottery and sports betting professionals to participate in our events as speakers or attendees, share their experiences, learn from peers, and gain invaluable insights from global industry experts.

This year, 20 scholarship attendees participated in six WLA and Regional Association events in Europe, Latin America, North America, covering:

• Technology and marketing
• Corporate Social Responsibility
• Responsible Gaming certification
• Security certification
• Tackling illegal operators
• Sports integrity

Feedback from scholarship attendees

“Thank you WLA for the opportunity to attend such an enriching event, whose experience and learning will undoubtedly contribute significantly to my professional development.”

– Valentina Francisca Ruz de la Cruz, Lotería de Concepción, Chile

With the support of CIBELAE Regional Association

“The WLA's active participation in awarding scholarships to its members was essential for strengthening and professionalizing the global lottery sector. Through these initiatives, the WLA not only promotes equitable access to high-quality training programs but also encourages the adoption of best practices, technological innovation, and compliance with ethical standards.”

– Edgar Diaz Salas General Manager of the Social Protection Board (JPS), Costa Rica

With the support of CIBELAE Regional Association

“I think WLA for the opportunity to participate in the event, from the other side of the world, through the Scholarship program, which gave me a clear glimpse of the diverse realities of other countries and regions, with different regulations. Understanding the tools used to combat certain issues and enhance others would undoubtedly be of great help in guiding my company's next steps.”

– Cristobal Maldonado Morgado, Head of Product for Sports and Digital Forecasts, Polla Chilena de Beneficencia, Chile

With the support of CIBELAE Regional Association

“I thank WLA for its support. The seminar provided rich insights into responsible gaming practices, anti-illegal gambling strategies, regulatory frameworks, and innovative applications of digital tools and AI. It was especially valuable to learn from global case studies – from Brazil’s public policy and enforcement approach – to Singapore’s AI-driven player protection models, to WLA’s responsible gaming framework and certification pathways.”

– Brian Uy, General Manager of the Beijing Office for the Hong Kong Jockey Club

With the support of the APLA Regional Association

“It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry colleagues from South and Central America, where they shared insights and tackled the challenges surrounding responsible gaming, illegal gambling, and sustainability initiatives. The atmosphere was truly collaborative, sparking lively discussions and the sharing of best practices that I believe will significantly boost our efforts in these vital areas. It was inspiring to see how our collective commitment can drive positive change.”

– Kate Carlson, Corporate Social Responsibility & Compliance Director, Indiana Lottery, US

With the support of the NASPL Regional Association

“I was able to learn a lot from this event with its diverse international speakers and topics. Given that there are no such events in Peru, I am grateful to WLA for the experience.”

– Sergio Poves, Director of Legal and Compliance, La Tinka, Peru‍

With the support of CIBELAE Regional Association.