Tribal Commitments

 

 Supporting the Connecticut Economy 

The Mashantucket Pequot’s efforts to develop the east coast’s premier gaming, spa and golf destination have not only helped restore the vitality of the Tribe but have also been a boon to the State of Connecticut. What began as a few humble enterprises to support the Tribal Nation has evolved into a world class gaming operation that serves as a significant economic and employment driver for Connecticut.

Today, Foxwoods is among Connecticut’s five largest employers, with approximately 8,000 employees.  In addition to Foxwoods, the Tribe also owns a number of other economic ventures in Connecticut, including a pharmacy, Lake of Isles Golf Course and The Spa at Norwich Inn.

Supporting the State and Local Governments through Direct Financial Contributions
The Tribe provides significant financial contributions to the State and local governments both as one of the highest tax payers in Connecticut and through its slot contribution agreement.  Since 1993, the Tribe has given more then $3 billion to Connecticut under this agreement. This contribution is also spread across Connecticut to help support local municipal governments.  As a result of the slot contribution to the State and taxes paid on properties owned in surrounding towns, the Tribe provides significant financial contributions to both the State and to local governments, which helps both entities fund governmental operations and projects across Connecticut.

The Foxwoods Economic “Ripple Effect”
Foxwoods has had a pronounced economic impact not only on the State and local governments but also on hundreds of small businesses across Connecticut. The increased tourism and proceeds that follow Foxwoods have a dramatic effect on the economy.

Foxwoods has consistently drawn around 14 million visits each year, about half of which come from guests who live in other states. The millions of guests who visit the casino consume goods and services from other businesses and industries and create significant revenue for the community. The additional revenue is distributed across the region and creates thousands of jobs throughout Connecticut.

The Tribe has also helped to boost tourism and grow revenue in southeastern Connecticut through the construction of its $193 million Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center. The museum is the largest and most comprehensive Native American museum in the country and has attracted nearly 250,000 visitors in recent years.

 

Supporting the Local Economy 

Since 1993, the Tribe has donated more than $100 million dollars in cash, services and material goods to hundreds of charitable organizations, other Native Indian Tribes and humanitarian outreaches around the nation. Highlighting its long list of donations includes a gift of $10 million to the Smithsonian Institute in 1994 and a $5 million gift to the Mystic Marinelife Aquarium in 1998.

The Tribe has also helped develop projects designed to promote economic development and contribute to the region’s commitment toward education, commerce, culture, arts and entertainment. Such projects range from the development of the Norwich Mercantile Exchange to the National Museum of the American Indian.

The Tribe also partners with the United Way and conducts annual campaigns to support community assistance, thereby strengthening the social economy and providing assistance to those in need.  In a similar manner, the Tribe has partnered with Habitat for Humanity and supports organizations such as the Connecticut Special Olympics and the American Diabetes Association.