The Alberta government has introduced major changes to its charitable gaming model, allowing organizations to retain and use more gaming proceeds without needing approval from Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC).
Starting April 1, 2025, charities can keep up to $50,000 in profits—a fivefold increase from the previous $10,000 limit. They can also allocate $100,000 of gaming funds towards community events without seeking regulatory approval. Other changes include doubling the limit for facility renovations to $100,000, raising administrative expense allowances to 30% from 20%, and removing travel-related approval requirements.
Minister Dale Nally, responsible for Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, stated that the province has eliminated 60% of its rules around charitable gaming, providing charities with greater autonomy to fund essential projects. “We believe that government needs to get out of the way of charities,” Nally emphasized.
The unregulated online gambling market in Canada remains significant
AGLC CEO Kandice Machado welcomed the reforms, highlighting their impact on over 23,000 charities that rely on gaming events. In 2023-24, charitable gaming generated over $409 million, with $79 million raised by First Nations charities.
While these reforms focus on charitable gaming, Alberta continues exploring an iGaming framework. The government is working with First Nations communities to determine their role in a regulated online gaming market, although industry insiders predict a potential launch delay until 2026.
