Since 2013, coin-operated amusement machines (COAMs) have seen rapid expansion across Georgia and become the fastest-growing product line in the state. Today, nearly 6,000 retail locations hold COAM licenses, and these skill games generated a staggering $1.59 billion in revenue.
A significant portion—45%—went straight into the pockets of business owners, allotting them a passive yet reliable revenue stream to benefit their operations. In addition, the Georgia Lottery Corporation (GLC) retained 10% of COAM earnings to support the lottery-sponsored education programs: the HOPE Scholarship and Georgia’s Pre-K initiative.
This dual role makes COAMs a powerful force in Georgia’s economic future. They provide a financial lifeline for business owners while empowering students to become tomorrow’s entrepreneurs and trained workforce.
COAM Revenue’s Impact on Education
Over the past three decades, when the Georgia Lottery first began allocating a portion of its profits to education, contributions have reached over $29.8 billion. That funding has made quality education more accessible to students of all ages through its contributions to the HOPE Scholarship and Pre-K programs,
In 2023 alone, COAM operations contributed $1,471,352,000 to the Lottery for Education Account, part of the GLC’s total revenue of $1.516 billion dedicated to educational initiatives. This figure doesn’t even account for the additional revenue generated through COAM point redemptions for lottery plays and scratcher tickets.
Speaking on those earnings, Governor Brian Kemp remarked about the feat stating: “These incredible fiscal year results are yet another example of how beneficial the lottery is in building a skilled, well-educated workforce worthy of the No. 1 state for business.”
Georgia’s Pre-K Program
A substantial portion of Georgia Lottery funds has been directed toward the state’s Pre-K program, which has provided high-quality early childhood education to more than 2 million 4-year-olds since its inception. Of the $26.8 billion in total lottery proceeds, over $11.8 billion has been allocated explicitly to Pre-K initiatives.
In 2024, the program received nearly $436 million in funding, ensuring free early education for children across the state.
The proposed 2025 budget reflects an even more significant investment, with almost $490 million designated for Pre-K improvements. These enhancements include $23.5 million to raise salaries for certified teachers and assistants by $2,500 to compensate the teachers who dedicate their time to giving children a better start in school.
An additional $11 million has been set aside to gradually reduce classroom sizes from 22 students to 20, promoting a more focused learning environment over the next four years. Finally, $6.1 million will be used to maintain and expand the Summer Transition Program, which helps prepare children for success in kindergarten.
The HOPE Scholarship
Since 1993, over 2.1 million students have benefited from more than $15 billion in HOPE awards, allowing them to pursue higher education at the state’s colleges, universities, and technical schools. This year’s 178,000 recipients were able to invest $841 million into achieving their post-secondary education and career goals.
The benefits of this funding extend far beyond education itself. Graduates have gone on to fill roles in critical industries such as healthcare, technology, and education, helping to meet the state’s workforce demands.
Others have used their education to become entrepreneurs, opening small businesses that serve their communities and fuel local economies.
A Financial Boon for Business Owners
Businesses are also benefitting from the rising popularity of COAMs.
In 2023, 45% of the $1.59 billion in COAM earnings—nearly $715 million—went directly into the pockets of local business owners. This substantial influx of revenue has helped sustain small businesses and provided a dependable source of income to support their day-to-day operations and reinvest in their communities.
For many, COAM revenues have also allowed business owners to hire additional staff. Others have used these earnings to improve the customer experience, attract more patrons, and further boost business. With more money circulating through hiring and keeping purchases local, COAM earnings create a sustainable cycle of growth that benefits the entire community.
COAM revenue has also allowed businesses to diversify their product and service offerings. Many have seen increased foot traffic and higher overall revenues thanks to the enticing entertainment options that come with a COAM license. Rather than just coming and going, patrons are likelier to stay for a few fun rounds of their favorite skill games.
COAMs: A Long-Term Investment in Georgia’s Future
The financial and community impacts of COAM revenues are undeniable, and you can make yours even larger by partnering with INAMAX. Our skill game terminals generate an average of $4,000 monthly—17% above the state average.
If you’re interested in participating in the rise of skill gaming, an industry expected to grow 139% by 2030, now’s the time. Our sales managers are standing by to discuss how your business can boost revenue while contributing back to Georgia’s optimistic financial future.
Call us today at (770) 449-0400 ext. 700 or visit our contact form.