Alberta's charitable gaming model

Alberta has a unique charitable gaming model. It is the only province in Canada where charitable organizations are licensed to conduct and manage casino events. Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC) also licenses charitable organizations to fundraise through bingo, as well as selling raffle and pull tickets.

What is charitable?

Section 207 (1) of the Criminal Code (Canada) indicates that it is lawful:

• (a) for the government of a province…to conduct and manage a lottery scheme in the province…[and]
• (b) for a charitable or religious organization, pursuant to a licence issued by the Lieutenant Governor in Council of a province…if the proceeds from a lottery scheme are used for a charitable or religious object or purpose;

So, this means that:

• only charitable or religious groups may conduct charitable gaming activities; and
• groups that conduct charitable gaming activities must use the money for charitable or religious purposes only.

In 2023-24, charitable organizations earned $409.3 million in proceeds through charitable gaming events.

Allocation of Revenues

Learn how revenue from casinos and racing entertainment centres is distributed in Alberta in this infographic.