The Canadian province of Alberta has confirmed that its regulated iGaming and sports betting market will officially launch on July 13.
Alberta will become the second Canadian province to launch a commercial online casino and sports betting market after Ontario went live four years ago.
In a letter to iGaming stakeholders this week, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Dale Nally said that player protection and social responsibility will be central to Alberta’s iGaming market.
At launch, system-wide self-exclusion and financial and time-based limit tools will be available to Albertans, while licensed operators will also be required to provide players with activity statements and take action when signs of problem gambling are identified. All operators must integrate their platforms with the AGLC’s centralized self-exclusion system.
“Alberta remains committed to building a safe, responsible, and well-regulated online gaming market, and we look forward to beginning our partnership with you on July 13,” said Minister Nally.
The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) began accepting registration applications from interested operators and service providers in January after amendments to the Gaming Liquor and Cannabis Regulation (GLCR) were approved, further clarifying the processes and requirements for the province’s regulated market.
Temporary transition measures were also introduced to support unregulated “grey” operators ahead of the transition to the regulated market, with all unregulated activities to end by July 13.
The AGLC will consider a maximum of three months extension to this date (October 13) on a case-by-case basis, only where an operator can demonstrate a path to compliance for market launch that was unattainable prior to July 13.
The newly formed Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC) continues to work with operators that have signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) on the draft operating agreement and policies, and all final AiGC policies and the operating agreement will be available no later than April 15 to operators who have signed an NDA.
“The launch of a regulated iGaming market is an exciting chapter for our province, and I am confident that we can work together to build a market that is both competitive and socially responsible,” said Minister Nally. “Alberta’s future in iGaming is bright, and, with your partnership, we will ensure it is a success for everyone.”
The Canadian Gaming Association commented: “On behalf of the board of directors and members, the Canadian Gaming Association (CGA) extends congratulations to the Government of Alberta, AGLC, AiGC, and the Honourable Dale Nally on announcing the launch date for Alberta’s iGaming market, scheduled for July 13, 2026.
“We commend your commitment to prioritizing player protection and implementing robust regulatory standards to ensure a safe market environment.”
PlayAlberta is the province’s only licensed iGaming site at present and is operated by NeoPollard Interactive under the direction and management of the AGLC.
Earlier this month the AGLC revealed that 55 sites had so far applied for a licence in the province.