Ontario’s regulated iGaming market, which launched on April 4, 2022, has matured significantly. As of July 22, 2026, iGaming Ontario lists 48 regulated operators operating 82 gaming websites. New operators still enter the market, but the pace has slowed compared with the early years, and the approval process has evolved in important ways.
While the province continues refining its regulated gaming framework, Ontario also offers plenty of non-gaming experiences — from quiet nature spots to local festivals and neighbourhood gems. Readers often explore guides like Ontario Hidden Gems 2026, Best Things to Do in Muskoka 2026, or Free Things to Do with Kids in Ontario alongside regulatory topics.
This article outlines the current AGCO operator approval framework and the key changes that have taken effect in 2025 and 2026.
The Core Approval Process (What Remains the Same)
Any company wanting to offer online casino, sports betting, or related products to players in Ontario must clear two distinct steps:
- Registration as an Internet Gaming Operator with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).
- An operating agreement with iGaming Ontario (iGO).
Games and critical gaming systems must also be certified by an Independent Testing Laboratory (ITL) registered with the AGCO before going live. This dual regulatory-commercial structure continues to define market entry. Holding only one of the two approvals is not sufficient.
Key Changes to AGCO Approvals and Standards
Several meaningful updates have altered the practical requirements for new (and existing) operators.
1. Greater flexibility on Responsible Gambling training (July 2025)
The AGCO removed the requirement for Registrar approval of responsible gambling (RG) training programs. Training must still be mandatory, regularly updated, and based on best practices, and employees must understand player protection and how to respond to signs of gambling harm. The change supports a more outcomes-based regulatory approach and reduces administrative steps for applicants.
2. Mandatory participation in centralized self-exclusion – BetGuard (May 14, 2026)
iGaming Ontario launched BetGuard, a province-wide centralized self-exclusion program. The AGCO updated the Registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming to introduce a new standard (2.14.1) requiring all operators to participate.
Key elements include:
- Operators must promote the program on their sites.
- Outstanding wagers generally need to be cancelled and refunded within defined timeframes once a player is added to the registry.
- Operators must continue to offer and honour their own site-level self-exclusion programs for at least 12 months after the launch of BetGuard while the AGCO reviews longer-term requirements.
This is now a core technical and operational requirement for any new operator.
3. Tightened marketing and inducement rules
Updated standards further restrict the public advertising of bonuses, credits, and other inducements. Such offers may generally only appear on the operator’s own site or in direct marketing where the player has given active consent. New entrants must design their promotional strategies carefully from the outset to remain compliant.
4. Structural change at iGaming Ontario
iGO was established as an independent agency (via the iGaming Ontario Act). This clarifies the separation between AGCO’s pure regulatory role and iGO’s commercial “conduct and manage” function.
Recent Market Activity
New operator registrations continue, though more selectively than in 2022–2023. Notable examples in the recent period include Absolutebet securing AGCO registration and preparing for launch, BetNova going live in April 2026, and Hard Rock Bet entering the market in 2026.
At the same time, several mid-tier operators have exited, citing operational costs or strategic priorities. The overall operator count has stabilized in the high 40s rather than continuing rapid expansion.
Supplier-side activity has been particularly strong. Multiple companies (including Endorphina, St8, Amusnet, ThrillTech, and others) have obtained Gaming-Related Supplier registrations, expanding the pool of content available to licensed operators.
What This Means for Prospective Operators
- The application process still runs through the iAGCO portal.
- Applicants should expect thorough scrutiny of integrity, player protection measures, anti-money-laundering controls, game fairness, and technical systems.
- Integration with BetGuard and readiness of RG programs are now essential go-live requirements.
- Differentiation is more challenging in a market with roughly 80 active sites. Strong local focus, mobile experience, or distinctive content offerings can help.
Operators who want a better feel for Ontario life beyond the regulatory side often look at regional guides such as Best Beaches in Ontario 2026, Point Pelee National Park Guide, Bruce Peninsula Day Pass 2026, or neighbourhood pieces like Things to Do in Cabbagetown Toronto.
Ontario’s regulated market continues to show robust growth in handle and gross gaming revenue, with high channelization rates (the share of play occurring on regulated sites). The AGCO’s approach remains firmly focused on player protection while gradually reducing certain administrative burdens.
Looking Ahead
Getting approved as a new operator in Ontario is still a serious process — and that’s intentional. The dual AGCO and iGO requirements haven’t changed at their core, but the past year has brought some welcome flexibility around RG training, a major new player-protection tool in BetGuard, stricter marketing rules, and a clearer split between the regulator and the commercial side of the market.
If you’re considering entering the market, the best next step is to check the latest official resources directly: the iGaming Ontario operators directory, the AGCO Registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming, and the Internet Gaming Operator Application Guide. Things continue to evolve, so staying current with the actual requirements is the smartest move.
After reading about regulations, many people also enjoy exploring quieter Ontario destinations such as Indian Head Cove on the Bruce Peninsula, Lower Decew Falls, Backus Woods, or local spots like Meaford Memorial Park and Things to Do in Owen Sound.
FAQ
How many operators are currently licensed in Ontario?
As of July 22, 2026, there are 48 regulated operators running 82 gaming websites under iGaming Ontario.
What is the difference between AGCO registration and an iGO operating agreement?
AGCO registration is the regulatory approval that confirms an operator meets Ontario’s standards for integrity, player protection, and technical compliance. The iGO operating agreement is the commercial agreement that allows the operator to actually offer games to players in the province. Both are required.
Has the approval process become easier or harder?
It has become more structured. Some administrative steps (such as pre-approval of RG training programs) have been relaxed, but new mandatory requirements — especially participation in BetGuard — have been added. Overall, the bar for entry remains high.
What is BetGuard and why does it matter for new operators?
BetGuard is Ontario’s centralized self-exclusion program, launched on May 14, 2026. Every licensed operator must integrate with it and promote it. It is now a core go-live requirement.
Do new operators still need game certification?
Yes. All games and critical gaming systems must be certified by an Independent Testing Laboratory (ITL) registered with the AGCO before they can be offered to players.
Are new operators still being approved in 2026?
Yes. While the rapid growth of the first couple of years has slowed, new operators and especially new suppliers continue to receive AGCO registrations and enter the market.
Where can I find the official list of licensed operators?
The most up-to-date list is published on the iGaming Ontario website under the Operators directory.
Play responsibly. Must be 19+ and physically located in Ontario to participate in regulated iGaming.