Ray Davies, head of egaming operations for the Isle of Man government, explains why the island is the ideal choice for starting a new venture.

Ray Davies

ONE of the biggest business questions a start-up operator needs to address is: Where should I license my company? Indeed, with so much information available, it can sometimes be confusing; leaving operators unsure which jurisdiction is able to meet their needs and the costs involved in doing so.

Entrepreneurs looking to base their business on the Isle of Man do so with good reason as the island’s strong reputation really does precede it.

The jurisdiction offers businesses world-renowned regulation that has player protection at its heart, and a simple and clear regulatory framework that makes the licensing process less onerous.

Start-up businesses or businesses looking to relocate can contact the island’s vast array of experienced and knowledgeable professional service providers, to deliver the support necessary in the early years and dramatically increase the chances of survival and success.

Licensing The licence structure itself covers all gaming activities with a simple and clear regime. The regulator, known as the Gambling Supervision Commission, offers one type of licence which is available at three levels: the Network Services Licence, the Full Licence and the Sub-Licence option. Each has a clear and straightforward fee arrangement, and importantly there are no hidden charges or extra costs built into the process.

Applicants for an Isle of Man licence enjoy a quick and uncomplicated licensing process that aims to provide them with a decision inside 12 weeks from submission of the application; this speedy process ensures their business will be fully operational in the shortest possible time. 

Outside the sphere of licensing, other business activities such as marketing, software and skill games can be carried out on the island without any need for a licence.

Read the full article in the latest issue of iNTERGAMINGi.