Published on: May 21, 2026, 04:21h.

Updated on: May 21, 2026, 04:22h.

• New Ipsos report on Ontario’s igaming channelization backed by AGCO and iGaming Ontario
• 91.1% of players in Ontario prefer regulated igaming platforms, an increase of 7.4% from the previous year
• Currently, there are 44 licensed igaming platforms in Ontario

A newly released Ipsos study shows that 91.1% of Ontario residents are now engaging with regulated igaming platforms, marking a 7.4% rise from last year.

8.9% Engaging with Unregulated Sites

“The rise in Ontarians opting for regulated igaming platforms is a testament to our effective strategy for responsibly expanding the online gaming landscape,” stated Stan Cho, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Our commitment to player protections and responsible gaming tools ensures a safer gaming experience for all residents across the province.”

The Ipsos study, commissioned by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario, found that only 8.9% of participants reported exclusive gambling on unregulated platforms, significantly down from 16.3% last year.

Insights from the Gaming Summit

Before the launch of Ontario’s competitive igaming market in April 2022, the government estimated that a staggering 70% of online gaming occurred on unregulated websites.

Minister Cho addressed attendees at Day 2 of the SBC Summit Canada, highlighting findings from the Ipsos research.

Cho, along with various industry leaders, consistently emphasizes that the regulated Ontario market is grounded in clear, enforceable regulations that necessitate operators to implement solid consumer protections, including maintaining game integrity and promoting responsible gaming measures.

Tackling the Persistent Illegal Market

Just last week, iGaming Ontario launched a new centralized igaming self-exclusion platform named BetGuard.

Players can now register on a single platform, enabling them to self-exclude from all regulated sites for a designated duration instead of applying across different platforms.

“It’s heartening to observe an increasing number of Ontarians choosing regulated sites for their online gambling,” remarked Dr. Karin Schnarr, CEO and Registrar of AGCO. “This ongoing trend underscores the efficacy of Ontario’s model focused on player protection. The AGCO is dedicated to addressing the persistent illegal market while ensuring regulated operators adhere to Ontario’s high regulatory standards.”

Current Landscape of Licensed Operators

As per information on the iGaming Ontario website, the Ontario igaming ecosystem boasts 44 licensed operators and a total of 76 gaming websites.

“The findings clearly indicate that Ontario leads the way in establishing a safe, competitive, and regulated online gaming environment,” stated Doug Downey, Attorney General of Ontario. “Just four years ago, our government paved the way for a modern, regulated framework for online gaming dedicated to safeguarding players, enhancing consumer choice, and combating illegal operations.

“We are proud to witness Ontario’s leading online gaming model continue to foster job creation, innovation, and economic growth throughout the province.”