Alberta Finalizing Plans to Open Up Gambling Market to Private Operators

Alberta is ramping up plans to open up its gambling market to private operates on July 13, 2026. Over 30 major sports betting and iGaming operators have applied for licenses, and those expected to set up shop here. It is a major shift from the current government-run, monopoly market, and it is expected benefit everyone, from the players to the operators as well as the provincial government. 

A Commercial Online Gambling Model 

Alberta currently operates its online gambling market based on a government-run monopoly model. Play Alberta, owned and operated by the provincial government, is the only regulated online gambling platform. 

However, the government-run monopoly model is about to end, as Alberta is about to adopt an Ontario-style commercialized model, allowing private operators to enter the market. The iGaming Alberta Act (Bill 48), which passed and received the Royal Assent in May 2025, will come into effect on July 13, at which point the private operators will launch their platforms to compete with Play Alberta. 

Over 30 major operators have already registered with the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) to secure licenses. The most notable brands expected to launch here include: 

• FanDuel 
• DraftKings 
• BetMGM 
• Bet365 
• Caesars Palace 
• BET99 
• BetRivers 
• PointsBet 

The new commercialized gambling market will support online sports betting as well as iGaming casino platforms. Notably, the pre-registration window is already open, and Alberta residents can take advantage of special offers for registering early. 

Expected Benefits 

Alberta’s decision to open up the gambling market to private operators will have exciting benefits for all parties, including the operators, the provincial government, and players. 

Huge Tax Revenues for Alberta 

Roughly 70% of local betting traffic in Alberta goes to offshore, unregulated sites, along with the wagers and potential taxes. The provincial government currently generates about $267 million annually through Play Alberta, the online regulated platform. However, experts estimate that the market could be worth much more – between $700 million and $1 billion in annual gross gaming revenue. 

Private operators will be subject to a 20% tax on their gross gaming profits. To this end, Alberta’s provincial government could generate up to $200 million in annual tax revenues. 

A New Market for Operators 

A report by Statistics Canada reveals that over 60% of the adult population in Canada is involved in some form of gambling. Some reports place the number much higher, ranging at almost 90%. 

Overall, there is a prime gambling market in Alberta waiting for private operators to scoop in. Notably, operators who launch here early will benefit by capturing a larger share of the market. However, with 30 private operators already scheduled to launch, the competition will be intense. 

More Choices for Players 

Alberta residents will go from one online betting platform to dozens. While Play Alberta does a good job with its games selections, sports markets, and promotions, it still has a few shortcomings. Notably, some private operators offer more casino games and sports markets, while others offer bigger bonuses. 

Alberta residents will also benefit from tighter player protection laws. Player safety tools like deposit limits and time alerts are a standard requirement across all platforms. Moreover, the provincial government will use 1% of the gross gaming revenue to enhance player protection measures like treatment programs and social accountability initiatives. 

Expected Drawbacks 

While legalizing and regulating online gambling in Canada will unlock many benefits, many are concerned about the risk of underage gambling and gambling addiction. While numbers vary, researchers estimate that up to 3% of Alberta residents struggle with problem gambling – that number could increase quickly with the proliferation of online gambling. Moreover, kids and young adults exposed to gambling ads and related content may also be tempted to try it out.