Don Bourgeois

Don has built an illustrious career over more than two decades, deeply rooted in the gaming industry, covering a spectrum from casinos to internet gaming and horse racing, often from the vantage point of top executive roles. His journey included a significant tenure as General Counsel for the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), where he also made impactful contributions as Deputy Registrar. In this capacity, Don was pivotal in steering the AGCO towards a risk-based regulatory approach and played a key role in the modernization efforts of Ontario's gaming and liquor legislation, including groundbreaking work on the Gaming Control Act and its regulations.

His work extended to crafting the Registrar’s Standards and Requirements, enhancing the eligibility assessment process for industry applicants, and spearheading the AGCO's regulatory assurance initiatives. Beyond the realms of regulation and compliance, Don has also co-directed the prestigious Certificate in Gaming Law program at Osgoode Professional Development, showcasing his commitment to legal education within his field.

Don's contributions to legal literature are notable, with his authorship spanning across several authoritative texts and articles on gaming law, including comprehensive guides on charitable and casino gaming. His expertise and leadership have not gone unrecognized, earning him accolades such as the Canadian Gaming Association’s award for Industry Leadership and Outstanding Contribution.

A graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School and Wilfrid Laurier University, Don's legal acumen is well-founded on a solid educational background. His recognition extends into awards from Chambers & Partners and The Best Lawyers™ in Canada for his contributions to gaming law.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Don has engaged deeply with the community and professional circles. His roles include President of Createscape Waterloo Region and Director at the Canadian International Development Organization. He also actively shares his knowledge through speaking engagements and publications on various platforms, covering topics from liquor laws in Canada to the governance of not-for-profits and charities.

Don's extensive involvement in the gaming and gambling industry groups, coupled with his leadership in legal and community initiatives, underscore his comprehensive approach to the intersection of law, regulation, and societal impact within the gaming sector. His career reflects a blend of regulatory innovation, legal scholarship, and community engagement, making him a distinguished figure in the landscape of Canadian gaming law.