Alberta is set to unveil its regulated online gambling market, which encompasses both sports betting and iGaming, on July 13, 2026. This initiative positions Alberta as Canada’s second province to permit private operators in the online gambling sector, following Ontario.
A letter from Dale Nally, the Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, has confirmed the launch date to industry stakeholders. This correspondence, initially reported by Gaming News Canada, emphasizes that many operators will require extra time to meet operational, technical, and compliance standards ahead of the launch.
In preparation for this launch, Alberta’s Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Regulation saw amendments adopted on January 13, which clarified licensing, advertising, and social responsibility obligations.
Simultaneously, the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) initiated the registration process for operators and suppliers, establishing a formal entry pathway into the market. Operators are required to complete a two-step registration process: first with the AGLC, followed by a commercial agreement with the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC), which will oversee market operations.
Temporary transition measures have also been introduced to assist operators shifting from gray market activities to the regulated framework, with these provisions set to expire on the launch date of July 13.
According to the stakeholder letter, operators that have successfully registered and paid their fees are now assessing their technical requirements, including integration with a centralized self-exclusion system.
By April 15, the province aims to finalize operating agreements and AiGC policies.
While Alberta has not disclosed a list of approved licensees, it is anticipated that several operators are gearing up for market entry. Notable North American brands such as FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, BetRivers, and theScore Bet are expected to participate.
International and emerging operators, including Super Group (parent of Betway), PointsBet, Soft2Bet, TonyBet, Bet99, Betty, NorthStar Bets, PowerPlay, and High Roller Tech, are also anticipated to join the market.
Alberta’s regulatory framework is expected to closely resemble that of Ontario, allowing multiple private operators to provide online casino and sports betting services under provincial oversight. The AGLC will function as the regulator, while AiGC will manage operations, similar to the role of iGaming Ontario.
Ontario’s market has seen substantial growth since its inception in 2022, with the regulated iGaming sector generating C$4.04 billion (approximately $2.98 billion) in revenue for 2025, marking a 34% increase year-on-year. The monthly handle has surged nearly tenfold compared to 2022.
However, there will be notable differences between Alberta and Ontario; for instance, Alberta will prohibit betting on elections. Additionally, a centralized self-exclusion program will be operational before the launch, while Ontario has yet to implement a provincial self-exclusion program.
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