Bally’s Corporation Donates to Rhode Island Community College

Bally’s Corporation has announced a $5 million donation to the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Foundation.

The contribution, the largest private donation in the college’s six-decade history, is earmarked for the development and launch of new educational programs in the gaming, hospitality, and security sectors.

Bally’s is based in Rhode Island, with its headquarters in Providence. It operates 15 venues in the U.S. across 10 states, including two casinos in the Ocean State. It is also one of only two licensed Rhode Island online casino operators, alongside International Gaming Technology.

“It is an honor to partner with CCRI on such an exciting and important initiative,” said Bally’s Corporation Chairman Soo Kim.

“We are proud to play an integral part in offering higher education opportunities for Rhode Island’s workforce, creating new jobs and driving economic development.”

A Landmark Partnership

The collaboration was unveiled at an event at CCRI’s Flanagan Campus, attended by notable figures including Kim, Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee (D), Senate President Dominick Ruggerio, and House Majority Leader Chris Blazejewski.

“This landmark partnership between Bally’s and CCRI will provide important learning and training for our CCRI students, leading to new workforce opportunities,” said McKee.

The donation offers a unique college opportunity for Rhode Island and New England residents, offering a comprehensive, gaming-focused curriculum.

Lessons will span various facets of the gaming and hospitality industry, from dealer training and casino operations to cybersecurity and hotel management. The college aims to roll out degree programs by fall 2024, with the Division of Workforce Partnerships focusing on short-term credentials to enhance the skills of Bally’s current workforce.

Scholarships and Future Prospects

Beyond the curriculum, Bally’s investment will also fund scholarships for Rhode Islanders keen on pursuing careers in the gaming and hospitality sectors.

 “We are thankful for Bally’s belief in our college and its students. Our track record in expanding new programs ensures that students get opportunities to learn and work to their fullest potential,” said CCRI Interim President Rosemary A. Costigan

“The generous gift provided by one Rhode Island-based company for the benefit of so many of our state’s community college students is a powerful way to advance economic and social opportunity and teach meaningful, transferable workforce skills.”

The Community College of Rhode Island is the state’s largest public higher education institution. It plays a pivotal role in serving a diverse student body, many of whom might not otherwise attend college. Bally’s donation will enhance their offering with new courses and extra facilities.

Rhode Island has already negotiated a very favorable tax deal with Bally’s, and in return, it is the exclusive online casino provider to state residents.

Rhode Island slot revenues are taxed at 61%. That is “the best deal on the books,” according to one state legislator, speaking earlier this year.

As well as having the financial clout to make $5 million educational donations in its home state, Bally’s has been spending big on upgrading its national online sports betting app. It recently relaunched Bally Bet in Ohio, with several other states soon to follow, after closing the app for two months while it worked on an upgrade with software provider Kambi.