Raving (d/b/a Raving Consulting)
- Founded
- 1998-01-01 in Reno, Nevada, USA
- Headquarters
- Reno, Nevada, USA
Raving is a Native-owned, full-service consulting firm serving the global casino and hospitality industry since its incorporation in 1998. Headquartered in Reno, Nevada, the company specializes in strategic marketing, guest service, player development, data analytics, surveillance and security, leadership training, and operational improvement. Over more than 25 years, Raving has partnered with more than 198 tribal nations and enterprises, 93 commercial properties, and clients across Canada and Asia. The firm is known for evidence-based, custom-designed programs that address specific operational challenges and drive measurable revenue growth. In addition to on-site consulting, Raving produces several industry-leading events, including the Casino Marketing & Technology + Host Player Development Conferences, established in 2001, and the Raving NEXT virtual experience. It also publishes Tribal Gaming & Hospitality Magazine. Raving is women-led and deeply committed to Indian Country, with a stated philosophy of enriching the lives of those it serves. The core team is small, supported by a larger network of more than 20 strategic partners who are seasoned operators and executives.
Events Organized
Detailed Review
History and Founding
Raving was founded in 1998 by Dennis Conrad and incorporated in Reno, Nevada. Conrad, a seasoned gaming industry veteran, built the firm around the principle that consultants should have direct operational experience—'walked in your shoes' is a core tagline. In 2017, Conrad transferred ownership to Deana Scott, who had been with the company since its early years. Scott continues the firm’s focus on sustainable development for Native communities and received the 2024 Chairman’s Leadership Award from the Indian Gaming Association.
Business Model and Services
Raving operates as a lean consulting firm with 2–10 core employees and a network of over 20 strategic partners who are independent contractors. Revenue comes from custom consulting engagements, on-site and online training (Raving OnDemand), conference registration fees, and publishing. The firm does not hold gaming licenses itself but advises regulated properties and tribal gaming commissions. Services cover data analytics, marketing strategy, slot and table operations, facility design, managed services, and training in guest service, player development, leadership, and surveillance.
Key Products and Brands
Raving's flagship conference, the Casino Marketing & Technology + Host Player Development Conference, has been held annually since 2001 at Pechanga Resort Casino. The Raving NEXT virtual conference offers a free two-day online event. Tribal Gaming & Hospitality Magazine is a trade publication covering tribal casino management. Raving OnDemand is a flexible online training platform. These products reinforce the company’s position as a central resource for tribal gaming operators.
Market Position and Clients
Raving serves over 198 tribal nations and 93 commercial properties, with long-standing relationships including Foxwoods Resort Casino. Client testimonials emphasize trust and practical, immediate impact. The firm’s Native-owned status and commitment to Indian Country differentiate it from many competitors. It competes with larger consulting firms like Gartner in gaming, but Raving’s niche focus on tribal gaming and hands-on approach gives it a loyal client base.
Leadership and Community
CEO Deana Scott leads the company. The firm actively supports the Notah Begay III Foundation, hosts a Tribal Spirit of Giving Celebration, and runs a scholarship program alongside its conferences. This community involvement aligns with its mission to enrich the lives of those it serves.
Key Products
Raving OnDemand
A flexible online training platform that allows casino teams to reinforce key concepts and build skills at their own pace.
Casino Marketing & Technology + Host Player Development Conferences
Annual in-person event since 2001 at Pechanga Resort Casino, focusing on marketing, tech, and player development for tribal and commercial gaming.
Raving NEXT
Free, two-day virtual conference that brings together gaming and tribal leaders for strategic collaboration online.
Tribal Gaming & Hospitality Magazine
A trade publication covering news, best practices, and analysis for the tribal casino sector.
Custom Training & Consulting Services
Bespoke programs in guest service, marketing, data analytics, surveillance, player development, leadership, and operational strategy.
Managed Services
Ongoing operational support for clients who need a continuous consulting relationship.
Offices & Headcount
6 employees (approx.)
Key Persons
Dennis ConradFounder