Serving Colorado
The Colorado Lottery has been a proud part of the state’s story since 1983. Our mission is simple but impactful: to create and sell Lottery games that meet the highest standards of integrity, entertainment, and efficiency, all to maximize proceeds for the people of Colorado. We exist to make Colorado an even better place to live, play, and thrive—today and for generations to come.
Thanks to our players, we’ve invested more than $4.3 billion in projects that support Colorado’s natural beauty and our schools. From hiking trails on the Western Slope to playgrounds on the Eastern Plains, Lottery proceeds have transformed communities and preserved breathtaking views in every corner of the state.
Where Does the Money Go?
Colorado’s Outdoors Win
We’re proud to be the only lottery in the world that dedicates nearly all its proceeds to the outdoors. Every ticket sold is an investment in Colorado’s future. Whether you play Scratch, Powerball, or Mega Millions, you’re contributing to something much bigger than a game—you’re helping to keep Colorado, Colorado.
Every dollar spent on a Colorado Lottery ticket makes an impact. Here’s how it breaks down:
- 65% goes directly to winners.
- 21-24% is allocated to our beneficiaries who support Colorado’s outdoors and education.
- 7-8% goes to Lottery retailers for selling tickets and supporting our players.
> Learn about the Lottery’s beneficiaries.
We're Self-Funded
Unlike many state agencies, the Colorado Lottery operates as an enterprise fund. This means we do not receive a single dollar from taxpayers or the state’s General Fund. Our operations—from employee salaries to infrastructure, retailer commissions, and prize payouts—are entirely funded by the sale of our games.
In short: every aspect of the Lottery is self-contained and the money we generate stays in Colorado, benefiting the outdoors and schools.
Colorado's Outdoor Principles
The Colorado Lottery is proud to support Colorado's Outdoor Principles that have been recognized by the Colorado Outdoor Partnership (CO-OP).
Giving Back
Since 1983, we've invested more than $4.3 billion (yep — with a "B") on protecting Colorado's wilderness and creating trails, parks, pools, and recreation.
Annual Report
As we build on Fiscal Year 2024, the Lottery continues its mission to create and sell games of chance conducted with the highest standards of integrity, entertainment and efficiency in order to maximize profits for the people of Colorado.
