Alberta launches regulated online gambling market as operators like FanDuel prepare entry

On July 13, Alberta officially opened a regulated online gambling market, becoming Canada’s second province – after Ontario – to run an open iGaming sector. The Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis authority has already registered 49 operators and aims to convert up to 70 % of grey‑market sites within the first year. The framework includes a centralized self‑exclusion system, a 2 % gross‑revenue share for First Nations communities and an additional 1 % for responsible‑gaming programs.

FanDuel, owned by Flutter Entertainment, announced plans to launch in Alberta, signalling confidence in the province’s regulatory model and prompting heightened competition among Canadian iGaming firms. The move underscores the market’s potential to attract major players and generate new tax revenue while offering tighter consumer protections.

Industry observers expect Alberta’s approach to serve as a blueprint for other provinces, with pressure growing for British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Québec and Atlantic Canada to adopt similar regulated frameworks.