Canada
Hard Rock Cafe To Serve Up Esports Events
Kore Meltdown, the US-based branch of Meltdown the world’s largest chain of esports bars, announced today they have entered into a partnership with Hard Rock Cafe, the internationally recognized, world-class hospitality brand, to provide exciting esports activations and entertainment at some of Hard Rock Cafe’s most popular locations.
In this first-of-its-kind partnership, Kore Meltdown will pair its unmatched expertise in the esports and gaming space with Hard Rock Cafe’s iconic bar and dining experience to engage passionate players and esports fans. To begin, Hard Rock Cafe locations in Atlanta, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Chicago will be among the first to play host to Kore Meltdown monthly events. To kick off the partnership, all four locations will host “The Origin of Esports: The Games That Rocked The World” themed events on April 13th, 2022 featuring prizes, and collaborations with top-notch local and international gaming organizations.
KMD, helmed by Meltdown Europe co-owner and United Esports Founder and CEO Felix LaHaye, will lend his decades of experience to create unforgettable nights for esports and entertainment fans alike. “It’s an honor to partner with a global brand like Hard Rock to continue to bring the success of our esports bars to the US,” said LaHaye. “I have always been a huge fan of the brand and we are thrilled to bring unforgettable events and experiences to the most passionate fans in the world. Kore Meltdown knows how to take gaming entertainment to the next level, by partnering with Hard Rock, we look forward to burgeoning a new generation of entertainment fans, with the content and world-class hospitality they crave.”
“Hard Rock has always been at the forefront of pop culture and entertainment, and our partnership with Kore Meltdown is a logical step in continuing that momentum,” said Keith Sheldon, President of Entertainment of Hard Rock International. “Hard Rock Cafe has always brought people together around good food, a vibrant atmosphere, and, most importantly, a love of music and entertainment. We are excited to take that commitment to the next level by authentically engaging with the esports community via Kore Meltdown’s tremendous network.”
In addition to bringing local esports communities together by providing a vibrant place to gather, drink, play, and watch, Kore Meltdown and Hard Rock will offer fans such exciting events as live tournament broadcasts and watch parties, meet and greets with well-known influencers, players, and streamers, fun theme nights and menus, PvP tournaments, free to play computers and consoles, interbar tournaments, rewards programs and more, with additional locations to be announced in the coming months.
Ben Clemes
High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario

High Roller Technologies, operator of the premium online casino brands High Roller and Fruta, announced the submission of its Internet Gaming Operator license application in Ontario, Canada, targeting the launch of its flagship brand HighRoller.com in the second half of 2025.
“The submission of our licensing application to access Ontario’s regulated online gambling market is an important milestone in our Company’s journey. Once our application is approved, we anticipate that we will have the opportunity to launch our online casino product into the market later this year,” said Ben Clemes, Chief Executive Officer at High Roller.
Ontario is one of the largest regulated online gambling markets in the world as measured by gross gaming revenue. In 2024, regulated online gambling operators within the province generated approximately $2.3B in gross gaming revenue, and growth continues to be recorded in the first half of 2025. Recently, the province of Alberta passed enabling legislation to establish a regulatory framework for online gambling. Once available, the Company also intends to pursue licensure in Alberta to expand its regulated market footprint in Canada.
“Ontario is missing an elegant brand like High Roller. We’re excited to roll out the red carpet for our new customers, and we’re looking forward to showcasing our tremendous product,” said Clemes.
The post High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Canada
IAGR announces program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto

The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) has released the program for its upcoming annual conference, to be held in Toronto from 20-23 October.
With the theme ‘Resilient regulation: Exploring what works, why and what’s next’, the event brings together global regulators and thought leaders to examine how regulatory frameworks can evolve to meet today’s challenges.
The four-day program explores timely issues, including the rise of AI and behavioural analytics, the impact of converging technologies, cross-border collaboration and the continued push to strengthen responsible gambling policies.
IAGR President Ben Haden said the program offers a strong preview of the content and conversations delegates can expect in Toronto.
‘This year’s program showcases the breadth and complexity of the challenges facing gambling regulators worldwide, from protecting player wellbeing to tackling illegal markets and understanding new technologies,’ Haden said.
‘I encourage regulators, researchers and policy professionals from around the world to join us in Toronto. The conference is a space to learn, share experience, challenge assumptions and shape the future of effective, collaborative regulation.’
Confirmed speakers and panellists include:
- Andrew Rhodes, CEO, Gambling Commission, Great Britain
- Anders Dorph, Director, Danish Gambling Authority, Denmark
- Dr Karin Schnarr, CEO and Registrar, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, Canada
- Mark Vander Linden, Director of Research and Responsible Gaming and Carrie Torrisi, Chief of Sports Wagering Division, Massachusetts Gaming Commission, United States
- Bashir Are, CEO, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Nigeria
- Teo Chun Ching, Chief Executive, Gambling Regulatory Authority, Singapore
- Ladipo Abiose Akolade, Founder, GamblePause Initiative Africa, Nigeria
- Rasmus Kjaergaard, CEO, Mindway AI, Denmark
- Tracy Parker, Senior Vice President, Accreditation, Advisory and Insights, Responsible Gambling Council, Canada
- Pedro Romero, Chief of Safer Gambling Partnerships, BetBlocker, Gibraltar
- Sonia Wasowska, Head of Supervision, General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, United Arab Emirates
- Steven Blackburn, Partner, Ashurst Risk Advisory, Australia
The event will be held at The Westin Harbour Castle on Toronto’s waterfront.
The post IAGR announces program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Alberta Gaming
Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership

Home field advantage has a new name, as the Edmonton Elks announced that Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium is now the home of the Elks.
The field naming rights are part of a broader multi-year agreement between Play Alberta and the EE, making Play Alberta the official sports betting partner of the Club.
“We couldn’t be more excited to expand our partnership with Play Alberta. This partnership is about more than just putting a name on the field – it’s about building something meaningful for our fans and our community. Play Alberta is an Alberta-based organization that shares our values and our commitment to giving back. Together, we’re creating new ways for fans to connect with our team and experience the game day atmosphere in a whole new way,” said Elks President and CEO Chris Morris.
The expanded relationship between the Elks and Play Alberta will allow the game day experience to continue to grow. Fans can look forward to unique activations and promotions around the stadium, including the chance to win game tickets and memorabilia.
“Since Play Alberta’s launch five years ago, our team has made it a priority to connect with the communities where our players live and work. We are very excited to join the Edmonton Elks on the field on game days during upcoming CFL seasons. Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium allows us to partner with the Elks and showcase two brands built for Albertans in a historic Edmonton location,” said Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Chief Executive Officer Kandice Machado.
The Elks open their 76th season on Saturday, June 7 in Vancouver when they take on the B.C. Lions. Edmonton’s home opener at Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium is slated for Thursday, June 19 against the Montreal Alouettes.
The post Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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