Gaming Laboratories International (GLI)
- Founded
- 1989-01-01 in Toms River, New Jersey, USA
- Headquarters
- 600 Airport Road, Lakewood, New Jersey 08701, USA
Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) is the world's largest independent testing laboratory and compliance services provider for the regulated gaming industry. Founded in 1989 by James Maida and Paul Magno, the company has certified millions of land-based, online, and lottery devices and systems across more than 710 jurisdictions globally. Headquartered in Lakewood, New Jersey, GLI employs over 1,500 professionals and holds ISO/IEC 17025, 17020, and 17065 accreditations. Its first major contract was with the State of South Dakota to oversee video lottery implementation. Beyond core testing, GLI offers compliance consulting, cybersecurity services, responsible gaming programs, and training through GLI University. In June 2026, GLI welcomed CVC Strategic Opportunities as its first external investor, providing resources for growth and innovation while maintaining its independent culture. The company serves regulators, suppliers, and operators, positioning itself as a critical infrastructure partner in the global gaming ecosystem.
Detailed Review
History and Founding
GLI was established on June 23, 1989, in Toms River, New Jersey, by James Maida and Paul Magno. Its first major contract was with the State of South Dakota to oversee the implementation of the first organized video lottery system in the United States. The company expanded rapidly into casino, Indian gaming, and riverboat jurisdictions across the U.S. and built an international presence with labs in Australia (Adelaide 1997, Sydney 1998), South Africa, and Europe (Netherlands). Today, GLI operates laboratories on six continents and is accredited to international standards for technical competence (ISO/IEC 17025) and inspection (ISO/IEC 17020).
Core Products and Services
GLI's core business is independent testing and certification of gaming equipment including slot machines, table game systems, online and mobile gaming platforms, sports betting systems, and lottery terminals. Services span the full product lifecycle: pre-compliance testing, formal certification, field inspections, and ongoing compliance audits. The company also provides robust cybersecurity and information security services, including ISO 27001 certification and World Lottery Association Security Control Standards (WLASCS) audits, complemented by its proprietary GLISecure.com platform. GLI University delivers training programs tailored to regulators, operators, and suppliers, covering topics from game mathematics to regulatory frameworks.
Market Position and Milestones
GLI became the first gaming test laboratory licensed by the New Jersey Casino Control Commission in 1996. It developed the widely adopted GLI-33 standard for sports betting platforms. The company serves regulators, suppliers, and operators across more than 710 jurisdictions worldwide. In June 2026, GLI entered a strategic partnership with CVC Strategic Opportunities, its first external investor. CEO James Maida confirmed that the leadership team would remain intact, and the investment would fuel growth, innovation, and service expansion while preserving the company’s culture and independence. GLI's combination of technical depth, jurisdictional knowledge, and independent integrity makes it the go-to compliance partner for the global gaming ecosystem.
Key Products
GLI Testing & Certification
Independent testing and certification of land-based, lottery, and iGaming devices and systems, covering hardware, software, and communications.
GLI Compliance Solutions
Integrated compliance services covering regulatory obligations, technical compliance, AML, and responsible gaming; tailored for suppliers, operators, and regulators.
GLI University
Training programs for gaming regulators and industry professionals, delivered in person and online, covering technical, regulatory, and operational topics.
GLISecure.com
Cybersecurity and information security portal offering governance, risk, and compliance services, including ISO 27001 and WLASCS audits.
GLI Certified Mark
A certification mark displayed on approved gaming products, indicating they have passed GLI’s independent testing and inspection.
GLI Standards
Global technical standards widely adopted by regulators, defining requirements for gaming devices, systems, and platforms such as sports betting.
Offices & Headcount
1500 employees (approx.)
Key Persons
- James Boje
Managing Director, EMEIA / Chief Operating Officer, EMEA
- James Maida
President & CEO / Co-Founder
Notable past members
- James Boje — Chief Operating Officer, EMEA