Michigan approves bet365 launch as Odawa partner, replacing PokerStars
Michigan has signed off on a new online betting operator, giving bet365 permission to enter the state through a partnership with the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.
The approval was announced Friday (April 17) by the Michigan Gaming Control Board. It allows Hillside Michigan LLC, doing business as bet365, to become the tribe’s internet gaming and internet sports betting platform provider. The tribe runs Odawa Casino in Petoskey.
This fills the opening left after PokerStars recently departed the Michigan market. Players who used the previous platform now have another major international brand preparing to compete for their business.
State officials said bet365 completed the licensing checks and regulatory steps needed before launch. With that process finished, the company can legally offer online casino games and sports wagering for the tribe in Michigan.
The company arrives with an established profile in North America. bet365 already operates in nearby Ohio and in Ontario, giving it regional experience before entering one of the larger regulated U.S. online gaming states.
“This approval reflects our continued focus on maintaining integrity, transparency, and consumer protection in Michigan’s online gaming and sports betting marketplace,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams.
“We are pleased to welcome bet365 as the Tribe’s new platform provider and look forward to seeing the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians continue to provide a safe, responsible, and enjoyable wagering experience for players across the state.”
Compliance rules stay in force as bet365 enters Michigan
Regulators said the approval does not reduce any operating obligations for either bet365 or the tribe. Both sides must continue following Michigan law and the board’s ongoing requirements.
This includes limiting offerings to games and wager types the board has approved. The regulator also reported that they must work with approved suppliers, use registered vendors, and rely on authorized cashiering locations where required.
Officials added that internal controls, published terms and conditions, and change-control procedures must remain board approved. Taxes, payments, and licensing fees also must be submitted on time under Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act and Lawful Sports Betting Act.
The board said it will keep monitoring licensed operators and service providers to make sure they meet standards tied to compliance, responsible gaming, and customer protection.
Michigan’s online market has grown steadily since legal internet casino gaming and sports betting began, making new operator entries closely watched by competitors and players alike.
In recent months, FanDuel was approved for a multi-state poker network in Michigan, as the board continues to crack down on illegal offshore gambling sites.
Featured image: bet365 / Canva
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