Minnesota Lottery surpasses $4 billion milestone, boosting state resources and environmental projects

The Minnesota Lottery has achieved a milestone by delivering more than $4 billion back to the state since its founding over 30 years ago, supporting environmental projects, recreational opportunities, and essential public services.

In the 2024 fiscal year, spanning July 2023 to June 2024, the Minnesota Lottery contributed a record $196.5 million to state beneficiaries, fueling efforts to preserve Minnesota’s natural resources and aid programs across all 87 counties.

Lottery sales reached $775.7 million in FY 2024, the third-highest total in the organization’s history, with $524.9 million generated from scratch-off games. High demand for scratch tickets and strong lotto game performance, especially during several record-setting jackpot runs, contributed to this revenue.

The payout to players was also high, with Minnesotans claiming $476.4 million in prizes over the fiscal year. Minnesota Lottery Executive Director Adam Prock stated: "Thanks to the hard work of our staff, the dedication of our retail partners, and the commitment of our players, we have been able to send more than $4 billion back to the state to support projects and programs that benefit all Minnesotans.” 

A substantial portion of the record-breaking $196.5 million revenue in 2024 was allocated to the state’s General Fund, with $101.7 million earmarked to fund critical services, including education, public safety, and healthcare.

Another $93.3 million of that total went to environmental and natural resource programs, supporting initiatives such as the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, the Game and Fish Fund, and the Natural Resources Fund, which focus on preserving Minnesota’s natural landscapes, wildlife habitats, and waterways. Additionally, $1.5 million was earmarked to help fund programs aimed at preventing and treating problem gambling.

Minnesota’s retail partners were instrumental in the lottery’s achievements, with more than 3,000 retailers statewide collectively earning $51.1 million in commissions and incentives. These earnings averaged around $16,950 per retailer, offering an economic boost to local businesses that act as lottery vendors.

The lottery also made technological strides with the launch of its first-ever mobile convenience app. This app enables players to scan tickets for prize verification, enter second-chance drawings, and create digital play slips, adding a new level of accessibility and engagement for participants.

Fiscal year 2024 also saw jackpots for Minnesota players. Two back-to-back Lotto America winners emerged in March and April, claiming $3.73 million and $3.1 million, respectively. Meanwhile, Minnesota’s Gopher 5 jackpot game saw its largest payout to date, with a $2.04 million jackpot won by a player in Baxter.