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UKAlberta Puts $2.4 Million Toward Problem Gambling Support
Key Highlights
- Alberta is providing $2.4 million to Brick House Recovery Centre for problem gambling treatment.
- The funding will support services in Edmonton, Calgary, and other locations virtually across the province.
- Future treatment funding is expected to come from one per cent of regulated iGaming revenue.
Following the July launch of its regulated iGaming market, Alberta is committing $2.4 million to improve treatment and recovery services for people experiencing gambling addiction.
Province Moves Ahead With Early Treatment Funding
Alberta’s $2.4 million in problem gambling support funding is going toward Brick House Recovery Centre, which has locations in Edmonton and Calgary. The grant money will help the comprehensive addiction treatment centre expand in-person help and recovery services for people dealing with problem gambling. Brick House also offers virtual support throughout the province.
When Alberta launched its regulated iGaming market on July 13, the provincial government committed to setting aside 1% of iGaming revenue for addiction treatment. The government is directing funds to Brick House before that system has accumulated sufficient funds for addiction support, but officials say the goal is to make support available sooner rather than waiting for operator contributions to build up. The 1% revenue target could also be increased, if necessary.
“If we have to raise the one per cent, we’re prepared to do that,” said Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Dave Nally.
Brick House Recovery Centre to Expand Services
Brick House Recovery Centre plans to use the funding to help strengthen recovery-focused care for individuals and families affected by gambling addiction. Co-founder Dr. Lovneet Hayer said the organization wants to provide practical support and a path toward lasting recovery. Its virtual services also allow individuals outside Edmonton and Calgary to access treatment.
A 2026 study in the Canadian Medical Association journal revealed that contacts to gambling helplines in Ontario increased 317% among youth aged 15-24 after the province launched its private market in 2022. Nally said Alberta expected a similar pattern, but is focusing on harm reduction, like preventative services and educating the public on how to spot gambling addiction signs.
The Brick House funding announcement ties Alberta’s treatment strategy directly to its newly regulated online gambling market. Addiction support was included in the province’s original iGaming commitments, with operator revenue expected to fund treatment over time.
Operators Expected to Fund Treatment Long Term
Nally also confirmed the grant is an advance on money expected to come from Alberta online gaming operators. He said the province didn’t want Albertans experiencing problematic gambling behaviour to wait while the 1% contribution was collected. The government’s position is that operators should ultimately cover the cost of treatment. Alberta had more than 50 registered sports betting and online casino operators when it launched in July.
Nally described the funding as an early stage in Alberta’s response to problem gambling under the regulated market. The province plans to continue using operator-funded revenue to support treatment as the system develops. Nally estimated the government would make $76 million during the first fiscal year of legal sports betting, which at a 1% rate would be $760,000.
