The U.S. lottery market exceeds $100 billion in annual spending, yet many state-run lotteries still operate on outdated systems that limit their appeal to modern players. Younger audiences increasingly turn to interactive entertainment such as video games and sports betting, leaving traditional lottery formats struggling to keep pace.

In recent years, lotteries have begun shifting toward digital channels to stay relevant. iLottery sales have surged more than sixfold since 2019, surpassing $13 billion in 2025. This move online has created an opportunity for gaming studios to deliver more engaging, high-quality content, but access to state-run lotteries has often been controlled by legacy vendors, making it difficult for new entrants to participate.

EQL’s Role in the Digital Lottery Ecosystem

EQL Games has positioned itself as the bridge between innovative game developers and lottery operators seeking to adapt to a digital-first market. Operating as the first dedicated aggregator in the iLottery sector, EQL handles the complexities of integrating new content into lottery systems, from delivery to ongoing support. This approach enables lotteries to launch interactive products such as digital scratchers, tapper games, and puzzle-based titles without adding operational strain.

Its portfolio includes original EQL-developed games, licensed intellectual property for organizations like Team USA and U.S. Soccer, and a global catalog sourced from more than 20 partner studios. Among its industry-first offerings are gravity-style mechanics and Miner Jack, the first puzzle-focused lottery title.

As stated in the company’s press release, Founder and CEO Brad Cummings has leveraged industry relationships to help state lotteries roll out compliant, engaging content faster than traditional systems allow. EQL already supplies games for the Michigan, Virginia, and Washington D.C. lotteries, and is in active talks with additional U.S. jurisdictions. Internationally, the company works with operators in the United Arab Emirates and Peru, with plans to expand into Europe in the coming year.

Bullpen Capital Partnership and Future Expansion

San Francisco-based Bullpen Capital, known for early investments in FanDuel in 2012 and Jackpocket in 2016, has now taken a stake in EQL Games. The investment will support accelerated innovation, expanded reach, and the delivery of advanced games to lottery operators worldwide.

“Lottery is one of the most widely played games in the world, yet it’s been historically underserved when it comes to innovation,” said Bullpen Capital general partner Paul Martino. “EQL Games is bringing modern infrastructure and content to a massive, regulated market – and doing so with a deep understanding of what government partners and players want. We believe they’re positioned to be the backbone of digital lottery.”

Cummings welcomed the backing, stating: “This investment from Bullpen Capital is a major validation of our mission. We’re excited to have a partner who’s been at the vanguard of regulated markets and gaming. With Bullpen’s help, we’re going to help lotteries with innovation and growth, especially on the digital side of the business.”

EQL’s expansion also includes the launch of new proprietary eInstant games. In collaboration with the NFL’s Detroit Lions, the company recently rolled out Detroit Lions End Zone Rush for the Michigan Lottery, following the earlier success of the Detroit Tigers Grand Slam game released in April.

Michigan Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli praised the partnership, saying, “I am thrilled to partner with EQL to launch the Detroit Lions End Zone Rush online game. Working with EQL allows us to bring innovative and exciting games to Michiganders while supporting public education in communities throughout the state.”