The speculation is over. Alberta has announced a firm date for the launch of third-party platforms to launch online sports betting and iGaming in the province.
According to a report by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) Commission, “Play Alberta” will officially have competition on July 13, 2026.
Long Time Coming
Play Alberta, the province’s government-run digital gaming app, launched its online casino gambling in October 2020, followed by its mobile sports betting feature in September 2021. However, the reviews have not been overwhelming, and the choice was finally made to bring renowned gaming apps into the market to create interest and generate more tax money.
Dan Keene, the interim CEO of the Alberta iGaming Corporation, commented on the timing of the launch during a podcast last month, saying, “We’re targeting a spring/summer launch, and there’s just tremendous momentum that’s happening. So, stay tuned.”
Official Launch Details and Regulatory Notice
And last week, operators learned of the official date through a letter sent by Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Minister Dale Nally, while an update on the AGLC website stated, “Beginning July 13, operators will be able to conduct and manage their legally registered iGaming platform in Alberta,” the page regarding online casino registration read Tuesday. “All applications and fees to AGLC must be submitted as of this date and contracts signed with the Alberta iGaming Corporation.”
According to the notice, any operator currently running an unregulated online gambling platform in Alberta must submit a complete application and pay all required fees to AGLC by July 13, 2026. They must also stop accepting bets by that date. As of March 17th, just nine offshore operators had paid the required fees, despite interest from over 55 companies.
BetMGM, BetRivers, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Penn Entertainment have all expressed their willingness to enter the Alberta market in recent earnings calls. FanDuel intends to invest approximately $70 million in its rollout, while Penn plans to spend between $15 million and $20 million.
Caesars also confirmed last week that it will bring three online casino platforms to Alberta, including its main sportsbook and casino app, along with standalone versions under the Caesars Palace and Horseshoe brands.
Framework Finished
Alberta authorities, who worked diligently on bringing third-party operators to the province, used much of Ontario’s blueprint to emulate. And some of the sticking points were related to tax rates and where that money would be earmarked.
Online betting platforms will have to set aside 3% of their gross revenue for the province’s tribal nations, and then pay a 20% tax on what remains. Meanwhile, physical venues such as casinos, racetracks, and sports arenas—including Calgary’s Scotiabank Saddledome—will face a 35% tax encumbrance on their earnings.
New Responsible Gambling and Regulatory Measures
Regulators have also introduced new rules, which include a ban on betting on elections as well as a centralized self-exclusion system designed to protect players who may be vulnerable to problem gambling issues.
In addition, casinos are now required to be equipped with electronic surveillance that connects to this province-wide self-exclusion program. This allows individuals to ban themselves from both brick-and-mortar gambling venues and digital sites at any time.
