Alberta has officially launched its regulated online gambling market, becoming the second Canadian province after Ontario to introduce a competitive licensing model for online sports betting and casino gaming.
The new framework allows licensed private operators to offer online gambling products under the supervision of the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC) and Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC).
50 Operators Approved at Launch
A total of 50 operators have completed the registration process, including major brands such as DraftKings, BetMGM, FanDuel, PointsBet, theScore Bet, bet365, and BetRivers.
The launch follows several years of legislative development and is modeled on Ontario’s regulated market, which opened in 2022.
Province Targets Strong Growth
Alberta expects to generate approximately US$1 billion in gambling revenue during the market’s first year, with further growth anticipated as the regulated industry matures.
Although the market opened during the closing stages of the FIFA World Cup, provincial authorities expect the tournament’s semi-finals and final to provide an early boost to betting activity.
Focus on Channeling Players to Regulated Sites
One of Alberta’s primary goals is to move players away from offshore gambling websites.
Government estimates suggest that around 70% of online gambling activity in the province previously occurred through operators licensed outside Canada. AiGC CEO Dan Keene said regulators are confident the new framework will significantly increase participation on licensed platforms.
Ontario’s experience highlights both the opportunity and the challenge. An IPSOS study estimated the province’s regulated market achieved an 83.7% channelisation rate in 2025, meaning nearly 16% of players continued using offshore gambling sites.
With 50 licensed operators already active, Alberta begins its regulated online gambling era with one of Canada’s largest competitive markets.
