The business of sports betting

The economic impact of sports betting in the U.S. is felt well beyond the sportsbook. This dynamic industry sits at the intersection of entertainment, technology, and regulation, reshaping how consumers engage with live sports and offering new opportunities for regional economic development.

National trend with local impact
Since the U.S. Supreme Court lifted the federal ban on sports wagering in 2018, more than 30 states have legalized sports betting in some form. What began as a niche offering in casinos has quickly grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry, with platforms, such as Hard Rock Bet, blending real-time data, interactive mobile experiences, and increasingly personalized content.

Illinois, one of the earliest adopters in the Midwest, has emerged as a significant player in this space. With a regulatory framework built on transparency and player protections, the state’s approach to legal wagering has drawn positive attention from operators, legislators, and economists alike.

Technology
What sets modern sports betting apart from traditional gambling is the high level of real-time engagement. Today’s consumers can place micro-wagers on specific plays or outcomes as games unfold—turning passive viewership into an interactive, immersive experience. These micro-bets are powered by robust mobile platforms, such as Hard Rock Bet, which often link digital activity to in-person rewards, encouraging hybrid participation both online and on-site.

This blend of technology and tradition has elevated sports betting beyond a simple revenue stream—it’s now an entertainment experience in its own right. Companies nationwide are investing in making the process more accessible and intuitive.

Responsible gaming and industry stewardship
As with any industry experiencing rapid growth, responsibility is critical. Operators across Illinois have implemented tools such as deposit limits, self-exclusion programs, and educational resources to support healthy gaming habits. At the policy level, Illinois continues to be viewed as a model for balancing innovation with oversight.

Local impact
Beyond the fun and excitement, sports betting contributes to a broader ecosystem. In the Rockford Region, Hard Rock Casino Rockford contributes to job creation, regional tourism, and local business engagement. With employees and casino visitors traveling to Hard Rock Casino Rockford from across the globe, the ripple effect is felt by businesses across the region.

Then there’s the tax income… Revenue from Hard Rock Casino Rockford, including sports betting, funds college scholarships, infrastructure, and community development, ensuring the industry benefits the region as a whole.

As the sports betting industry continues to mature, its integration into community life and popular culture is expected to remain a key driver of long-term growth. Whether viewed from the perspective of industry professionals, policymakers, or casual observers, there is little doubt that this sector is reshaping how sports are experienced and how entertainment is enhanced around live events.

Hard Rock Casino Rockford is an extension of the Hard Rock International brand. It boasts 175,000+ square feet of gaming, entertainment, and hospitality space with slot machines, live table games, a state-of-the-art sportsbook, six unique restaurants, and a Rock Shop offering authentic Hard Rock merchandise and more.

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce.