Alberta is moving closer to opening its iGaming market to commercial operators, using Ontario’s regulatory framework as a model. The provincial government recently introduced the necessary framework, with officials expecting the market to launch within months.
Dave Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, emphasized the need to regulate the existing grey market. “For Albertans who choose not to gamble, the best option is to not start. With unregulated iGaming widely available in our province, it is our responsibility to step in, regulate the market and hold private providers to the highest standards to protect Albertans, particularly our youth,” Nally said.
Modeled After Ontario
The new market will be overseen by the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC), with the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) acting as the regulator for the market. Operators will undergo a three-part application process similar to Ontario’s system, which has successfully onboarded over 45 operators since 2022.
Under the new model, Alberta will retain 20% of iGaming revenue. Two percent will be allocated to First Nations, and 1% will fund social responsibility initiatives. The framework includes strict advertising rules prohibiting targeted ads to minors and the use of athletes.
Industry experts see significant potential in Alberta. “Alberta has the youngest adult population in Canada with the highest per-capita GDP and the highest per-capita spending on gambling,” noted executives during earnings calls.
Estimates suggest the market could exceed $700 million annually, significantly boosting revenue compared to the current monopoly held by PlayAlberta.
