Alberta’s government has opened a call for proposals for new gambling addiction services following the launch of its regulated online gaming market.
The province is seeking organizations that can provide additional support programs alongside existing services available through Recovery Alberta, including a 21-day bed-based treatment program and established helplines.
The Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction said funding for the new initiatives will come from revenue generated through Alberta’s regulated iGaming system, which officially launched in July 2026.
“Nobody should have to struggle with addiction alone, including gambling-related addiction,” the ministry said.
The new support measures form part of Alberta’s broader approach to managing the effects of expanded online gambling access. Under the regulated system, the province receives 20% of revenue from each private operator, with 1% allocated toward “social responsibility initiatives” such as gambling addiction services and educational campaigns.
Province Opens Applications For Additional Support Programs
The government’s request for expressions of interest was published as Alberta introduced its regulated online gambling market. Officials said the goal is to fund services that strengthen existing resources available to people experiencing gambling-related problems.
The call for applications highlighted that the continued growth of online gambling creates additional challenges in preventing and addressing problem gambling behaviour.
The government stated that gambling-related harms can affect multiple areas of a person’s life, including mental health, physical health, relationships, financial stability, employment, housing, and overall wellbeing.
The Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction said it is seeking organizations capable of delivering enhanced assistance to individuals and families affected by problem gambling.
Applications remain open until September 10, although the government has not confirmed how many proposals will receive approval.
Until new programs become available, people seeking assistance can contact 211 Alberta for support.
Alberta Links iGaming Revenue With Social Responsibility Measures
Alberta’s regulated online gaming framework launched with almost two dozen private sportsbooks and casino operators accepting wagers on the first day. Five additional operators joined the market in the weeks following the launch.
Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally previously said the regulated system was designed to protect residents from black market operators. However, he also acknowledged that increased gambling availability could contribute to a rise in gambling addiction cases.
The government has directed a portion of operator revenue toward measures intended to address potential harms associated with online gambling growth.
The province’s funding model includes a dedicated allocation for social responsibility initiatives, allowing gambling revenue to support programs focused on addiction services and public education.
Government Continues Monitoring Effects Of Online Gambling Expansion
The request for applications reflects Alberta’s recognition that regulated online gambling creates new requirements for prevention and treatment services.
The province said the additional programs would complement existing resources rather than replace current services. Organizations selected through the application process would provide further assistance for people affected by gambling-related issues.
The introduction of regulated iGaming has expanded the province’s legal online gambling market, while officials continue assessing the support systems needed alongside the sector’s development.
Source:
Alberta seeks proposals for gambling addiction services as part of iGaming launch, thecanadianpressnews.ca, August 11, 2026
