Alberta is about to undergo a big change in the online gambling and sports betting space. Bill 48, aka the iGaming Alberta Act, has passed the legislature and all that’s left is Royal Assent. Once that happens, Alberta will be the second province in Canada, after Ontario, to open up to private operators.

Right now, Albertans have only one provincially sanctioned online gaming option: Play Alberta. This government-run platform is managed by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC). But with Bill 48 about to become law, that monopoly is coming to an end. The bill creates the Alberta iGaming Corporation, a new government entity that will issue operator agreements and oversee market entrants.

This will allow for more diversity in the province’s gambling offerings by bringing in licensed private operators. The goal is to give consumers more choice, more protections and bring currently unregulated gambling activity under the radar.

Industry insiders expect many big brands, including global online casinos and sportsbooks to apply for licenses to enter the Alberta market. The province’s demographics and spending power are the key. Alberta has Canada’s youngest adult population and the highest per-capita GDP, making it a top target for iGaming operators.

The numbers are big. Experts predict the legal online gambling market in Alberta will be over $700 million a year. Some projections are even higher, saying it could hit or exceed $1 billion in its first full year of operation.

GG.Bet, already popular with esports and digital casino players, will likely look into licensing opportunities in Alberta. The regulated market offers a safe and dynamic space for established players and new entrants alike.

Ontario is a useful benchmark. Since they opened up their market in 2022 they have licensed over 50 private operators and generated over $3.2 billion in revenue in one year. Alberta wants to replicate that success, not just for the revenue but to improve safety and accountability in the gambling space especially for those currently using grey market sites.

Despite the progress the official launch isn’t expected until late 2025 or early 2026. Several key regulatory components, taxation frameworks, marketing standards and responsible gaming mandates, still need to be finalized. The government has committed to working with industry stakeholders and the NDP is pushing to make sure consumer protections are top of mind.

The changes coming mean a big step forward for online betting in Alberta. From more sportsbooks on local and international sports to more user friendly casino platforms under strict regulation, Albertans can expect a safer and more fun digital gambling experience. Bill 48 is not just legislative reform, it’s the start of a new competitive iGaming era in Alberta.