Alberta's regulated online gaming market launches Monday with 20+ operators ready
Alberta becomes Canada's second province to open private iGaming, following Ontario. The province forecasts $76 million in first-year revenue.
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Alberta's regulated online gambling system officially launched on July 14, making the province the second in Canada to open the doors to private sports betting companies and online casinos, behind Ontario.
Nearly 50 companies paid $200,000 in registration and permit fees ahead of the launch, though Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally said closer to 20 are ready to serve customers. The Alberta Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Commission confirmed "all systems are a go" as of midnight Monday.
The new system stems from legislation passed last year. Before Monday, Alberta online gamblers either used the government-owned PlayAlberta or risked unregulated offshore sites with no consumer protection. The province will collect 20 per cent of each company's revenue, with one per cent set aside for problem gambling programs and two per cent earmarked for First Nations.
Alberta's self-exclusion program — which allows people to ban themselves from gambling — now applies to online operators, who must let players set time and wager limits. Nally emphasized the system prioritizes player safety over revenue. "People will be safer in the regulated space," he said.
The launch has already prompted one operator to pull out. Estonia-based Coolbet announced earlier this month it was withdrawing from Alberta due to the regulations. Ontario has seen significant growth in betting since opening its market in 2022, though the province has also reported increases in gambling-related helpline calls.
The facts
When did Alberta's regulated online gambling market launch?
Alberta's regulated online gambling system officially launched on July 14, 2026, making Alberta the second Canadian province to open its market to private sports betting companies and online casinos.
How many operators were ready to serve customers at launch?
Closer to 20 operators were ready to serve customers at the July 14, 2026 launch in Alberta, though nearly 50 companies had paid the $200,000 registration and permit fees.
What share of revenue does Alberta collect from online gambling operators?
Alberta collects 20 per cent of each online gambling operator's revenue, with one per cent set aside for problem gambling programs and two per cent earmarked for First Nations.
Which operator withdrew from Alberta before the launch?
Estonia-based Coolbet announced earlier in July 2026 that it was withdrawing from Alberta due to the regulations.
