Alberta’s iGaming Revolution: A Competitive Market on the Horizon
Alberta is on the cusp of a significant transformation in its gambling landscape. The provincial government has introduced the iGaming Alberta Act, aiming to establish a regulated and competitive online gaming market. This move is designed to capture revenue currently lost to offshore operators and enhance consumer protection.
Legislative Developments
On March 26, 2025, Dale Nally, Alberta’s Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, introduced Bill 48, known as the iGaming Alberta Act. The proposed legislation seeks to create the Alberta iGaming Corporation, a new Crown entity responsible for overseeing the province’s online gambling operations. This corporation would function similarly to Ontario’s iGaming framework, where private operators can enter the market under regulatory oversight.
Industry Anticipation
Major online sports betting operators, including BetMGM and PointsBet, have expressed keen interest in Alberta’s emerging market. BetMGM, for instance, indicated in a February 2025 investor presentation their anticipation of launching operations in Alberta within the year. Similarly, PointsBet’s leadership projected a launch aligning with the 2025 NFL season, suggesting a potential start around September.
Projected Launch Timeline
Despite initial expectations for a 2025 rollout, recent insights suggest a revised timeline. Industry leaders have indicated that the market is now targeting a launch in the first quarter of 2026. This adjustment allows the government to finalize legislation, develop comprehensive regulations, and engage with stakeholders, including Indigenous communities.
Current Gambling Landscape in Alberta
Presently, PlayAlberta, operated by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC), is the sole legal online gambling platform in the province. However, it’s estimated that PlayAlberta holds less than half of the province’s online gambling market share, with many residents turning to unregulated “grey market” sites.
Implications for the Future
The introduction of a regulated iGaming market in Alberta holds significant implications. It promises to provide consumers with a safer and more diverse gaming environment, ensure that revenues benefit the provincial economy, and set a precedent for other Canadian provinces considering similar initiatives.
As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders and consumers alike are closely monitoring developments, anticipating a more structured and secure online gambling landscape in Alberta.
