Alberta Commits C$2.4M to Gambling Addiction Treatment

Jonathan Rodriguez

Written by: Jonathan Rodriguez

Published: Mon Sep 28, 2026, 9:00 am ET

Read Time: 3 minutes

Alberta Commits C$2.4M to Gambling Addiction Treatment

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Alberta is committing approximately C$2.4 million to expand gambling addiction treatment services across the province. The funding arrives shortly after Alberta launched its regulated iGaming market on July 13.

The province awarded the funding to Brick House Recovery Centre, an Alberta-based addiction treatment provider. The organization operates treatment centres in Edmonton and Calgary and offers virtual services provincewide.

Brick House will use the funding to provide structured treatment for Albertans affected by gambling addiction. Its program includes four weeks of outpatient treatment followed by up to eight weeks of individualized aftercare.

"Gambling can ruin people's lives and livelihoods," said Minister Dale Nally. Nally oversees Alberta's iGaming market as Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction.

"If you don't gamble today, you absolutely should not start tomorrow," Nally added. "For Albertans who choose to gamble and are struggling, we have your back, and we're making sure real help is there when you need it."

The minister's comments come as Alberta builds its responsible gambling framework alongside the regulated online market. The new funding will expand access to specialized treatment as the sector develops.

Alberta Advances Funding Before iGaming Revenue Arrives

The C$2.4 million payment represents an advance against future funding from Alberta's regulated iGaming market. The province does not want residents to wait for operator payments before accessing expanded treatment.

Alberta plans to direct 1% of iGaming revenue toward social initiatives and responsible gambling measures. That allocation includes funding for gambling addiction treatment.

The government expects approximately C$76 million in iGaming tax revenue during the market's first year. However, that revenue will take time to reach government coffers.

As a result, Alberta is covering the initial treatment costs through the C$2.4 million grant. Operators will ultimately fund the treatment allocation through the regulated market.

This approach connects the expansion of Alberta gambling with additional responsible gambling resources. It also allows treatment services to expand before the market generates its expected revenue.

Brick House Provides Structured Gambling Addiction Treatment and Recovery Support

Brick House Recovery Centre is the first organization selected through Alberta's funding process. The province launched that process ahead of the regulated iGaming market.

The treatment model combines an intensive initial program with longer-term individualized support. Participants will complete four weeks of outpatient treatment before entering up to eight weeks of aftercare.

The same treatment and aftercare services are available virtually across Alberta. This provides access for residents who cannot attend the Edmonton or Calgary locations.

Brick House Chief Medical Officer and co-founder Dr. Lovneet Hayer said the organization focuses on recovery-oriented care for affected families.

"As a leading provider of addiction and mental health treatment in Alberta, we are committed to helping individuals and families affected by gambling addiction access high-quality, recovery-focused care," said Hayer.

"Our goal is to offer hope, practical support and a path toward lasting recovery."

The province will also select additional organizations to receive funding later this fall. Those providers are expected to expand access to gambling addiction services across Alberta.

Alberta Reviews Future Treatment Funding

The province currently maintains the 1% allocation for responsible gambling and addiction treatment. However, officials have indicated that the figure remains subject to review.

Nally said Alberta will monitor gambling revenue and treatment requirements as the regulated market develops. The province could increase the allocation if future demand requires additional funding.

For now, the C$2.4 million commitment provides an initial expansion of specialized treatment services. It also establishes a funding pathway tied to Alberta's newly regulated iGaming market.

Alberta residents experiencing gambling-related problems can also access support through the provincial 211 service. The service operates around the clock and can connect residents with available resources.

Jonathan Rodriguez
Jonathan Rodriguez

Jonathan is an avid basketball fan, and is often looking forward to the next upcoming NBA season when not checking players' stats during games. He also likes to keep his ears on the ground for the latest rumblings in the online casino industry.

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