Founded in 2004 when the state of Iowa lifted its moratorium on new gaming licenses, Wild Rose Entertainment earned its industry stripes as one of four companies selected for the expansion. The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) awarded Wild Rose its first license on May 10, 2005, after a year-long competitive process involving10 proposed projects.
Wild Rose Casino & Resort in Emmetsburg opened its doors a year later. Eager to expand, Wild Rose received another gaming license from the IRGC as part of its acquisition of an underperforming riverboat in Clinton, Iowa. Wild Rose retired the riverboat and replaced it with a land-based casino, hotel and convention center.
Wild Rose casinos have posted year-over-year revenue increases while providing significant funds for economic development and civic activities in their respective communities.