Connecticut's Foxwoods tribal operator renews its online gaming strategy with new venture Wondr Nation

The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, which runs Foxwoods Resorts Casino in Connecticut, announced Tuesday the official launch of Wondr Nation, its newest venture in online gaming that replaces Mashantucket Pequot Interactive. Wondr Nation is an iGaming entertainment company described as focused on partnering with “best-in-class gaming platforms," and using emerging technologies and trends to create new and exciting experiences for players. 

According to the tribe, Wondr Nation will focus on expanding the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe’s digital footprint while continuing to partner with other Native American tribes and technology companies “to create engaging and unique experiences”. 

Industry veteran Anika Howard will serve as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer and President of Wondr Nation. She is widely recognized for her vision, leadership and ability to drive gaming companies and products into evolving areas, a press release says.

Prior to joining Wondr Nation, Howard worked for Foxwoods Resorts Casino, International Game Technology (IGT), and Caesars Entertainment, where she focused primarily on the development of interactive products and experiences designed to improve processes and create integrated player experiences. 

Anika Howard.

In an official press release, Howard stated: “I’m proud and honored the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has entrusted me to lead this new venture, and I’m very excited to share the vision for Wondr Nation. We hope to bring a fresh approach to what’s next for the gaming industry."

Wondr Nation will continue the Tribe’s tradition and commitment to the community through partnerships with local organizations and educational institutes. The ultimate goal is to create programs and resources to develop tribal and local talent and expertise in emerging tech. 

Tribal Chairman Rodney Butler added: “The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has always championed innovation and empowerment, which are core values incorporated into Wondr Nation’s foundation. From lawmakers and regulators to community members and patrons, we’re deeply grateful and honored to continue sharing our Tribe’s ongoing passion for entertainment through the next frontier of interactive gaming." 

Wondr Nation aims to create maximum opportunities, profitability, and impact for industry partners. The company manages Foxwoods’ social casino and FoxwoodsONLINE. It works in coordination with DraftKings on the co-branded Foxwoods online gaming and sports betting experience in Connecticut and soon Puerto Rico. 

Jason Guyot, President and CEO of Foxwoods Resort Casino, commented: “The gaming and entertainment industry is evolving at an incredible rate, which has created innovative new opportunities for our players that we’re deeply excited about. Wondr Nation will provide our guests with the interactive gaming experience that Foxwoods is known for with the flexibility and access that’s needed for the modern player." 

The rival of Foxwoods in Connecticut, Mohegan Sun, had its online offering boosted by Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment's creation of Mohegan Digital back in July last year, after the state signed a bill legalizing sports wagering and online gaming, which launched in September.