AGLC soliciting proposals for retail sports betting

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis is welcoming bids from prospective vendors that wish to enter the province’s sports betting market. Beginning today, interested parties can apply through Alberta Purchasing Connection.

AGLC is working towards retail and online sports betting options with mobile extensions, to be established in 2022. As a first step in this process, AGLC is seeking two proponents to provide some flexibility and options in the first phase, and will consider additional opportunities as the market continues to develop.

“Opening the bid process for retail sportsbetting in Alberta is another exciting step for sports fans in the province. AGLC is proud to facilitate this next step that will involve the existing casino and racing entertainment centre industry while working with Alberta’s major professional sports teams. Continuing this work is an important step in offering consumers convenience and choice in their gambling entertainment options,” said Kandice Machado, President & Chief Executive Officer, AGLC.

AGLC has maintained ongoing communication with representatives of the casino industry and the Alberta Sports Coalition, which represents the Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, Calgary Stampeders and Edmonton Elks. AGLC will continue to monitor other provincial lottery markets while gathering feedback from the Alberta sports betting industry in order to safely expand vendor opportunities in the future.

The proposal process for vendors will close on January 31, 2022 and the successful proponents of the Negotiated Request for Proposals will be announced once awarded.

While this approach supports the goal of expanding the market in the future, it also recognizes the province’s requirement to “conduct and manage” commercial gaming activities set out in the Criminal Code of Canada. Work is ongoing to support these efforts and AGLC will be reaching out to stakeholders to continue expanding access in a safe and legal manner.