Nebraska’s biggest casino operator, WarHorse Gaming, has secured a $300 million refinancing package that sets the stage for an ambitious expansion, including launching a brand new casino in South Sioux City and significant upgrades to its existing Omaha and Lincoln venues.
Key Takeaways
- WarHorse Gaming secures $300 million in financing for growth.
- Construction of a new South Sioux City casino to begin summer 2026.
- Expansion plans also include major upgrades to facilities in Omaha and Lincoln.
- The move expected to drive increased gaming revenue and local investment.
Multi-Million Dollar Financing Drives Expansion
In an impressive show of confidence from the financial sector, WarHorse Gaming arranged a $300 million refinancing deal in under a month with a consortium led by U.S. Bank, joined by Capital One, KeyBank, The Huntington National Bank, BOK Financial, and Comerica Bank. The five-year loan enables Nebraska’s leading casino company to accelerate construction and expansion projects across multiple sites.
According to WarHorse’s leadership, this swift refinancing validates the strength and growth outlook of their operations. It positions the company for its next chapter of development, not only expanding gaming options for Nebraskans but also generating significant economic activity for the region.
New South Sioux City Casino on the Way
Central to the expansion is the construction of a new WarHorse Casino in South Sioux City. Building is slated to begin in summer 2026, pending final regulatory approvals. This new location aims to further cement WarHorse Gaming’s presence in northeast Nebraska and offer modern gaming and entertainment amenities to local residents and travelers alike.
Major Enhancements for Omaha and Lincoln Sites
The infusion of capital won’t just create a new facility; it will also turbocharge enhancements at WarHorse’s current properties. In Lincoln, a spring 2026 expansion will bring more gaming machines, additional table games, a new steakhouse, and a high-end sports bar. Meanwhile, Omaha’s expanded casino, which opened earlier in 2025, continues to fuel strong visitation and revenue growth for the company.
Strong Economic Performance and Community Investment
So far this year, WarHorse Gaming has posted over $94 million in gaming revenue, according to the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission. The company’s gaming taxes alone have contributed about $22.5 million this year—much of it allocated toward property tax relief as mandated by state law.
Leadership highlights that WarHorse Gaming is Nebraska-grown and owned, with a commitment to providing a world-class experience while investing in local communities, the state, and the Winnebago people. The Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, through its economic development entity Ho-Chunk, Inc., oversees WarHorse’s operations.
Anticipated Impact and Future Growth
WarHorse Gaming projects that its operating cash flow could double in 2026 as a result of these combined expansions. With increased entertainment options, expanded facilities, and a focus on reinvestment in Nebraska, the company expects both local engagement and statewide benefits to rise—potentially transforming the regional gaming landscape for years to come.
Further Reading
- WarHorse Gaming strikes $300 million deal, prepares to build new casino in northeast Nebraska, KOLN | Nebraska Local News, Weather, Sports | Lincoln, NE.
- WarHorse Gaming strikes $300 million deal, prepares to build new casino in northeast Nebraska, KOLN | Nebraska Local News, Weather, Sports | Lincoln, NE.
- WarHorse Gaming, LLC secured refinancing to build a new casino in South Sioux City, Nebraska and complete
expansions of current casinos, KTIV. - WarHorse Gaming receives loan for construction of new casino in South Sioux City, KTIV.
- Winnebago Tribe’s WarHorse Gaming secures $300M refinancing for Nebraska casino
growth, Tribal Business News.