Alberta’s regulated online gambling market is moving closer to reality, with the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC) confirming that RG Check accreditation will be compulsory for all operators entering the province. The measure emphasizes a strong focus on player protection and responsible gambling from the outset.
RG Check, administered by the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC), has earned international recognition for evaluating iGaming sites against stringent standards. The program covers governance, marketing practices, staff training, and safeguards for players, providing independent verification that operators adhere to evidence-based responsible gambling protocols.
“Alberta is committed to building a safer, regulated iGaming environment where player protection comes first,” said Dan Keene, Interim CEO of AiGC. “By requiring RG Check accreditation, we’re ensuring that every iGaming operator in our market has demonstrated their commitment to player safety through independent verification of their responsible gambling programs.”
RGC CEO Sarah McCarthy highlighted the significance of regulatory collaboration: “This partnership with AiGC demonstrates the power of regulators and responsible gambling experts working together to protect players from day one. Alberta is building on a strong foundation established in Ontario, where RG Check has proven its value in creating safer gambling environments. This proactive approach ensures that player protection isn’t an afterthought; it’s built into the market from the ground up.”
Timeline for Market Entry
Although Alberta initially aimed to launch its iGaming market in early 2025, delays have pushed the rollout back. Officials now project a launch window around late June or early July 2026. Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Dale Nally indicated that temporary regulatory requirements set to expire in early July suggest the market could be ready shortly afterward.
The schedule is intended to allow operators to establish operations during the slower summer sports season, creating momentum ahead of the NFL andNHL schedules in the fall. Interim CEO Dan Keene expressed confidence in this timeline: “I would suggest that spring/summer is when you’re going to see the market open in Alberta. I remain very confident of that.”
Operational Preparations and Compliance
Operators already accredited under RG Check in other jurisdictions will face a simplified transition, though a dedicated Alberta accreditation remains necessary. Licensed operators will enter into agreements with AiGC, establishing their role as agents responsible for conducting and managing iGaming activities in the province.
Keene also outlined ongoing organizational requirements, including hiring a Chief Compliance and Operations Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Director of AML. Additional tasks include identifying headquarters, creating the AiGC brand and website, and refining policies and operational procedures.
By integrating RG Check accreditation into its regulatory framework, Alberta positions player safety as a competitive advantage, not simply a compliance formality. This alignment ensures that responsible gambling standards are enforced consistently and transparently across all operators.
“One of the biggest things I’ve heard from operators, and it’s so true, is that we need to do it right and with integrity,” said Keene. “We certainly won’t shirk any of our responsibilities.”
Source:
“Alberta iGaming Corporation Makes RG Check Accreditation Central to Player Protection Framework”, newswire.ca, February 20, 2026
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