Alberta’s iGaming landscape is poised for significant growth as operators from across Canada and beyond prepare to enter the province’s newly regulated market. With the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) opening the registration process in early January, companies licensed in Ontario have wasted no time in pursuing an opportunity to expand into the western province. This marks a pivotal moment for Alberta, as it becomes Canada’s second province to implement a competitive, open-market iGaming framework.
PointsBet, BetRivers, and Betty are among the operators who have already begun the licensing process, aiming to establish a strong presence once the market officially opens. Alberta’s new regulatory system will provide greater flexibility for operators, making it easier for those already established in Ontario to expand into Alberta without encountering significant barriers. Dale Nally, the minister overseeing Alberta’s iGaming rollout, emphasized that the government is working closely with Ontario’s authorities to streamline the transition, making it as seamless as possible for operators.
PointsBet Leads the Charge in Alberta’s iGaming Expansion
PointsBet, a major player in both online sports betting and iGaming, has announced its plans to launch in Alberta following the opening of the application process. Having already established its presence in Ontario, PointsBet Canada is now preparing to introduce its platform to Albertan residents. The company has begun the pre-registration phase, allowing Alberta users to sign up for its services ahead of the official market launch.
Scott Vanderwel, CEO of PointsBet Canada, expressed excitement about Alberta’s move to a more open, competitive iGaming environment. “Alberta’s move toward an open, competitive iGaming framework is a positive step for Canadian players, offering more choice and consumer protections in a safe and regulated environment,” said Vanderwel. “We’re excited to introduce our innovative, Canadian-focused sports betting and online casino products to Alberta residents.”
The operator anticipates a full launch in the coming months, with both its online sports betting and casino products going live once the final regulatory steps are completed. PointsBet’s entry into Alberta will enhance the local market, giving players more options while also ensuring compliance with provincial regulations.
BetRivers and Betty Canada Expand into Alberta
Rush Street Interactive (RSI), the parent company behind the BetRivers brand, is another notable operator preparing to enter Alberta’s competitive iGaming market. With years of experience in Ontario, RSI plans to replicate its success in the new province. The company recently confirmed that it has applied for an Alberta license and is eager to launch both its sports betting and casino offerings. Kyle Sauers, President and CFO of RSI, highlighted that Alberta’s market fits perfectly with BetRivers’ growth strategy, citing the brand’s recent success in Ontario, where it reported significant revenue growth in 2025.
Betty Canada, an online casino operator known for its slots-focused offerings, is also targeting Alberta as its next major market. After seeing impressive growth in Ontario, Betty is set to bring its established model to Alberta, hoping to attract local players with its proven formula. CEO Chavdar Dimitrov emphasized that the company would focus on maintaining a consistent cross-provincial experience, delivering a seamless transition for players moving from Ontario to Alberta.
A Competitive Market Awaits
Alberta’s iGaming market is expected to be highly competitive, with many operators from Ontario and the U.S. looking to establish a foothold. Big names like FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars Entertainment are already eyeing Alberta as the next frontier for their iGaming and sports betting offerings. These operators, alongside others like DraftKings and theScore Bet, are gearing up to compete for market share in a province that is set to become a major player in the Canadian iGaming landscape.
The upcoming launch of Alberta’s regulated iGaming market represents a significant shift in the province’s approach to online gaming. With no limit on the number of licensed operators, Alberta’s new framework mirrors Ontario’s successful model, offering players a wider range of options and ensuring that all operators comply with strict regulatory standards. This move is also intended to address the growing issue of unregulated iGaming activity in the province, which currently captures a large portion of the market.
Alberta’s government has made it clear that it wants to ensure a fair and transparent gaming environment for residents. By allowing multiple operators to apply for licenses and pre-register customers, the province aims to create a balanced and competitive market that benefits both players and operators.
Conclusion: The Future of Alberta’s iGaming Market
As Alberta prepares for the full launch of its iGaming market, operators are already positioning themselves to compete for a share of the rapidly growing sector. With PointsBet, BetRivers, Betty, and several U.S.-based companies joining the race, the province is set to become a major hub for regulated online sports betting and casino gaming in Canada.
The next few months will see intense competition among operators as they work to gain customers and establish themselves in the Alberta market. With a strong regulatory framework in place and a clear commitment to consumer protection, Alberta’s iGaming sector is primed for success.
Source:
PointsBet, BetRivers, Betty among operators to apply for Alberta iGaming license, canadiangamingbusiness.com, February 3, 2026
