Our Mission
The mission of Indian Gaming Association is to protect and preserve the general welfare of tribes. IGA works with the Federal, State and Tribal governments to develop sound policies and practices and to provide technical assistance and advocacy on gaming-related issues. IGA works to maintain and protect tribal sovereignty.
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About the Association
Incorporated in 1985, Indian Gaming Association (IGA) is an inter-tribal association of federally recognized Indian Tribes united with the mission of protecting and preserving tribal sovereignty and the ability of Tribes to attain economic self-sufficiency through gaming and other forms of economic development. The common commitment and purpose of IGA is to advance the lives of Indian peoples economically, socially, and politically. IGA operates as an educational, legislative, and public policy resource for tribal policy makers as well as the public, on issues related to Indian gaming and tribal community development.
Located on Capitol Hill, IGA is a leading voice for Indian Country, working diligently to ensure that the special status of tribes is recognized and protected when issues affecting tribal sovereignty arise. IGA advocates on behalf of Indian tribes with Congress, the White House and federal agencies. In order to accomplish its mission, IGA often works with Congress and the administration on all Indian Issues under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and the Commerce Clause.
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Board of Directors
"Our membership is our strength, and we are the strongest when our voice is unified."
– Ernie Stevens, Jr
Meet the Board
Internal Staff
With community first, the Indian Gaming Association team is led by a team of dedicated and passionate individuals.
Meet the Staff
Meet Our Chairman
Ernest L. Stevens, Jr.
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Ernest L. Stevens, Jr. is a prominent leader in the Indian gaming industry. He serves as the chairman and national spokesperson for the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) in Washington, D.C. With an impressive tenure spanning over 24 years, Stevens is currently beginning his thirteenth two-year term, a position he was elected to in 2001 by the members of IGA. His leadership has been instrumental during a pivotal time for the organization, which proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary this year and is one of the foremost advocacy organizations in Indian Country.

Throughout his distinguished career, Stevens has devoted himself to advocating for the positive impacts of Indian gaming, not only on tribal communities but also on neighboring areas. Under his guidance, the IGA has worked tirelessly to educate Congress, the media, and the public, highlighting how Indian gaming serves as a vital economic engine for tribal nations and local economies.  Stevens’ influence extends beyond advocacy; he has been at the forefront of shaping significant policy initiatives designed to protect tribal sovereignty and enhance the viability of the Indian gaming industry.

The remarkable growth of Indian gaming revenues highlights Stevens' effective tenure, which consistently supports the member tribes. Since 2000, revenues have surged from $11 billion to an astonishing $43.9 billion in 2024, establishing Tribal Government Gaming as the largest segment of the gaming industry in the United States, surpassing Commercial Gaming. This unprecedented growth reflects not only the strength of the Indian gaming sector but also the successful strategies implemented under Stevens’ guidance with the member tribes.

Before his extensive work with the IGA, Stevens served as an Elected Councilman for the Oneida Nation in Wisconsin from 1993 to 1999. Additionally, he held the position of First Vice President of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), where he further demonstrated his commitment to advancing the interests of Native American communities by testifying and walking the halls of Congress with some of the most prominent leaders in Indian history.

Beyond the IGA' scope, Stevens actively contributes to various organizations that empower Native American enterprises and youth. He serves on the Board of Directors for the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED), the Nike N7 Foundation Board, the Executive Board of the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY), and the Native American Advisory Board for the Boys and Girls Club of America (BGCA). He is also Board Member Emeritus of the Native Forward Foundation (formerly known as the American Indian Graduate Center). His multi-faceted involvement showcases his unwavering commitment to promoting tribal interests and fostering the growth of Native communities.

As the Indian Gaming Association celebrates its 40th anniversary, Ernest L. Stevens, Jr. stands as a pillar of leadership and advocacy, driving forward the mission of economic development and empowerment for tribal nations across the United States.

Chairman Stevens is an enrolled member of the Oneida Nation in Wisconsin. He and his wife Cheryl have been partners for 47 years and married for 43 years. Together, they have five adult children and 20 grandchildren.