Ontario Hits CA$3.2 Billion in Online Gambling Revenue

Ontario’s regulated online gambling market just hit a huge milestone — CA$3.2 billion in total gaming revenue for the 2024–25 financial year. That’s a 32% increase from the year before, and a sign that Canada’s most populous province is quickly becoming one of the biggest iGaming markets in North America.

For affiliates, this is more than just a big number. It’s a wake-up call.

Ontario’s success shows what’s possible when regulation is done right — and what kind of opportunity exists for partners who are ready to play by the rules.

Here’s what’s behind the growth, and what it means for the affiliate space.

A booming market

Since opening its regulated market in April 2022, Ontario has become a case study in how to do iGaming properly.

Operators must be licensed. Players are protected by clear rules. And the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has taken an active role in keeping things fair and transparent. The result? Big-name brands have moved in, competition is healthy, and consumer trust is growing.

According to iGaming Ontario (iGO), the CA$3.2 billion in revenue came from 49 licensed operators running a total of 77 websites. Combined, those operators handled nearly CA$63 billion in wagers — on everything from slots and table games to sports betting.

And these aren’t just casual players. The average active user spends CA$228 a month, showing real engagement.

What’s fuelling the rise?

There are a few clear factors behind Ontario’s success:

• Smart regulation: By creating a regulated environment that still allows for healthy competition, Ontario has attracted dozens of international and domestic operators.
• Consumer trust: Players know they’re gambling on legal, licensed platforms with proper security and responsible gambling tools.
• Strong mobile play: Like most markets, mobile devices drive the majority of traffic and betting activity, making it easier for players to engage wherever they are.
• Sports betting growth: Major league tie-ins and a busy sports calendar have pushed sports betting into the mainstream, pulling in new customers.

For affiliates, this mix creates the perfect conditions to promote trusted brands and build long-term traffic.

Why this matters to affiliates

Ontario isn’t just a success story — it’s a signpost for where the industry is headed.

Many affiliates were hesitant to enter the Canadian market when it first opened. The licence requirements were new, the compliance rules felt strict, and the penalties for getting it wrong looked harsh.

But those who jumped in early are now reaping the rewards. Operators are paying strong commissions, the player base is growing, and the environment is stable.

Affiliates who can create high-quality, locally relevant content — and follow the rules — are seeing strong conversions and repeat traffic.

This is a regulated market where the playing field is clearer, and the risks of promoting grey-market brands are no longer worth it.

What you need to watch out for

Operating in Ontario as an affiliate still comes with a few challenges:

• Registration: You need to be registered with iGO to promote licensed operators. This adds paperwork and a small fee, but it’s non-negotiable.
• Strict ad rules: You can’t advertise bonuses, inducements, or misleading claims. That means no flashy “Free Spins!” banners unless the user is logged in.
• Content localisation: You need to speak to the Canadian player — in tone, offer, and currency. Generic UK or US content won’t cut it.
• Operator limits: Some big international brands haven’t entered the market. That means you may need to build new partnerships or prioritise local operators.

But these challenges are manageable — and the upside is clear. Affiliates who focus on quality, clarity and compliance are thriving.

Looking ahead

Ontario’s CA$3.2 billion milestone is impressive — but it’s also just the beginning.

With more players entering the market, more investment in user experience, and a steady stream of sports and gaming content, there’s plenty of room for further growth.

iGO has shown it can manage the balance between regulation and innovation, and other provinces are watching closely. If Alberta or British Columbia follow suit, Canada could become one of the biggest regulated iGaming regions in the world.

For affiliates, that means now is the time to double down — or get in, if you haven’t already.

Final thoughts

Ontario is showing the rest of the world how regulated iGaming can work. And for affiliates, it’s proof that compliance doesn’t mean compromise — it means long-term opportunity.

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, watching others make money in this market, it might be time to reconsider.

CA$3.2 billion is just the start. And affiliates who build trust and add value will always have a seat at the table.