Alberta confirms July 13 launch for regulated iGaming market with 50 approved operators

Alberta is set to become the second Canadian province to adopt a competitive licensing model for online gambling, with the market officially opening on July 13, 2026. The date was confirmed in a letter to stakeholders from Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Minister Dale Nally, who serves as the province’s de facto iGaming minister. The move breaks from the monopoly-style model used in most other provinces, following the framework introduced by Ontario in 2022.

Operator Registration and Revenue Targets

Fifty private-sector operators have completed the registration process with the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) and will be able to go live under the oversight of the Alberta iGaming Corporation. The approved list includes DraftKings, BetMGM, FanDuel, PointsBet, theScore Bet, bet365 and BetRivers. According to the letter reviewed by multiple outlets, operators must comply with all licensing rules by the launch date or risk being barred, though limited extensions may be granted until October 13.

Alberta is targeting approximately US$1 billion in gambling revenue during its first year of operation, with further growth expected as the market matures. Although the launch comes near the end of the FIFA World Cup—only the semi-finals and final remain—the tournament is expected to provide an immediate boost to betting activity during the launch period.

Channelisation Goals and Offshore Competition

Provincial authorities estimate that around 70% of online gambling activity in Alberta currently takes place through websites licensed in foreign jurisdictions. Alberta iGaming Corporation chief executive officer Dan Keene expressed confidence that the province can “significantly increase the share of gambling conducted through the regulated market.” For comparison, an IPSOS study for 2025 estimated Ontario’s channelisation rate at approximately 83.7%, meaning nearly 16% of players there still use offshore operators.

Minister Nally’s letter acknowledged that many operators needed additional time to prepare for the new market’s requirements. The Alberta iGaming Corporation continues to work with companies on a draft operating agreement, with the finalized contract expected to be available by mid-April. “Alberta's future in iGaming is bright, and, with your partnership, we will ensure it is a success for everyone,” Nally wrote.