When people think of winning the lottery, an overall general image is formed: big houses, nice cars and fancy trips. If you were to ask an Indiana native what they would do if they won the lottery, responses would include filling their gas tank, prepping for a new child or even setting up college funds for their grandchildren. These are real people; these are Hoosiers.
While their state lottery was named after them, Hoosiers didn’t feel the Hoosier Lottery reflected their values or their dreams. Only 35% of Hoosiers said the Lottery was for people like them. Few were playing the Lottery.
Mass Audience
MKR executed qualitative and quantitative research to uncover insights into motivations and barriers to Hoosier Lottery participation by heavy users – and non-users. We uncovered some basic truths: we all have dreams, both big and small. The Lottery, which represents the people of Indiana, is the champion of Hoosier dreams.

From the small winners to the big ones, to the beneficiaries of the Lottery’s proceeds, the lottery makes life just a little better for Hoosiers. MKR transitioned the results from the research to create and execute a comprehensive brand strategy.

Addressable Audience
We used the research as a basis to create a new Hoosier Lottery – for the people, by the people. With a brand new look, the Hoosier Lottery didn’t tell Hoosiers how to dream, but encouraged them to express their dreams. A platform was provided for Hoosiers everywhere, from Alfordsville to Zanesville, to share what they’d do if they won the Hoosier Lottery.
Ongoing brand activation and storytelling via social channels helped to spread the new concept – The Hoosier Lottery is the champion of Hoosier dreams, big and small.


Audience’s Audience
Through YouTube, Facebook, and live casting events all throughout the state, real Hoosiers were able to share their dreams through their lottery. We created a new icon and a new motto, “Imagine That.” Out-of-home pieces showcased some examples of Hoosiers’ dreams, and videos showed interviews of Hoosiers telling their stories. This was utilized to increase awareness as well as encourage other Hoosiers to share their stories.

Results
MRK measured campaign success results through quantitative brand empathy measures, social channel fans and followers, as well as total annual revenue including increases in sales of specific games.
18% increase in brand affinity
Social audience grew 116%
Scratch-off sales grew 29%
Hoosier Lottery moved from 33rd to top 3 nationally in rate of growth