Supporting Canadian Sportsbooks: Where Your Money Goes
With a growing interest in supporting Canadian businesses, it's more important than ever to understand how your sportsbook transactions can reinvest into the local economy.
Outside of Ontario betting sites, province-owned operators like PlayNow are excellent choices for those who want to ensure their wagers support public programs and local initiatives. However, there are also some fantastic homegrown alternatives, privately owned sportsbooks that are based in Canada and contribute to the economy through tax revenue, employment, and community investment.
Whether you're betting on your favourite team or exploring new platforms, choosing Canadian-owned sportsbooks is one way to keep your money working here at home.
- Tax Revenue
The money generated from betting activities is reinvested into Canadian communities, helping fund public services like healthcare, education, infrastructure, and more.
- Local Jobs and Economy Boost
Canadian-owned sportsbooks create jobs, both directly in the betting sector and indirectly through associated industries like technology, customer service, and marketing.
- Community Investment
Many homegrown sportsbook invest into their communities and local sports and events. This support can benefit local charities, as well as youth sports programs, amateur leagues and local tournaments and community centers.
List of All Canadian-Owned Sportsbooks
Company | Top Feature | Action |
---|---|---|
#1 |
Our Pick for Novelty Bets AGCO licence number: OPIG1242525 | |
#2 |
Our Pick for Player Prop Bets AGCO licence number: OPIG1235604 | |
#3 |
Our Pick for MLB Specials AGCO licence number: OPIG1226485 | |
#4 |
Our Pick for eSports AGCO licence number: OPIG1237762 | |
#5 |
Our Pick for New Players OLG operated | |
#6 |
Quebec's Provincial Sportsbook |
Dedicated Province-Run Sportsbooks
Besides supporting local private businesses, choosing a province-owned sportsbook ensures that 100% of the profits generated from your wagers are returned directly to the province you reside in. All net proceeds from these platforms are reinvested into essential public services, like healthcare, education, and community programs, making them a great option for bettors who want their play to have a positive impact on the Canadian economy.
Province | Operator | Sportsbook |
---|---|---|
Alberta | Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC) | PlayAlberta |
British Columbia | British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) | PlayNow |
Quebec | Loto-Quebec | Mise-o-jeu+ |
Manitoba | BCLC (in partnership with Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries) | PlayNow |
Ontario | Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation | Proline+ |
Saskatchewan | BCLC (in partnership with Indian Gaming Authority) | PlayNow SK |
Top 4 Canadian Owned and Operated Betting Sites
We've put together a list of the 4 best sportsbooks that are both owned by Canadians and operated right here in Canada. Keep reading for a deeper look at each platform: who’s behind them and how they contribute to Canada.
1. Sports Interaction
Company | Top Feature | Action |
---|---|---|
Our Pick for Novelty Bets AGCO licence number: OPIG1242525 |
Owned By | Mohawk Online Limited |
License | Kahnawake Gaming Commission |
Based In | Kahnawake, Quebec |
Available In | All Canadian Provinces |
Since 2015, Sports Interaction has donated over $5 million to local programs, including the Mohawk Immersion School, a two-year adult language immersion program, and the development of a new Cultural Arts Center. These efforts showcase their commitment to reinvesting in the community.
For those looking to support Canadian businesses and ensure their wagers are making a local impact, Sports Interaction stands out as an excellent choice.
Sports Betting: What Do They Offer?
Sports Interaction (SIA) offers a solid betting experience with unique features like Piñata Picks, where users can place randomized bets at odds up to +10,000, and a variety of special bets including odds on the weather and politics. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, good variety of betting markets, and quick payment options like Interac, iDebit, and MuchBetter. However, the mobile experience could be improved, and some markets are suspended frequently, which may cause frustration for bettors.
SIA offers a strong mix of mainstream and niche sports betting options, with a particular focus on popular Canadian sports like hockey and football. The sportsbook also stands out with its free-to-play feature and NFL Scorigami bets, which are unique to the platform. While it doesn't have the depth of betting markets or odds of competitors like Bet365 or LeoVegas, SIA excels in offering fun, creative betting features and a generally smooth user experience. Overall, it’s a great option for casual bettors and those looking for something different.
2. NorthStar Bets
Company | Top Feature | Action |
---|---|---|
Our Pick for MLB Specials AGCO licence number: OPIG1226485 |
Owned By | NorthStar Gaming Holdings Inc. |
License | Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) + Kahnawake Gaming Commission |
Based In | Toronto, Ontario |
Available In | All Canadian Provinces |
While there are no public records of Northstar Bets confirming direct donations or community programs, Canadian bettors can feel confident knowing their wagers support public services. In 2023 alone, NorthStar Bets contributed $3.77 million in taxes, which went into Ontario’s general revenue fund, helping to support key areas like health care, education, and social services across the province.
Sports Betting: What Do They Offer?
Northstar Bets is a strong option for NBA, NFL, and MLB bettors, offering a wide range of betting lines, Same Game Parlays, and a dedicated Sports Insights section to help users make informed wagers. The platform also provides a well-designed mobile app with convenient features like push notifications, making it easy to place bets on the go.
However, live betting falls short due to the lack of live-streaming. While live metrics and real-time game timelines serve as useful alternatives, some bettors may prefer sportsbooks that offer live video coverage.
When it comes to odds value, Northstar Bets lags slightly behind competitors like 888Sport and LeoVegas, making it a less attractive choice for those prioritizing the best margins. Additionally, high deposit and withdrawal minimums ($20) may be a drawback for some players.
Despite these areas for improvement, Northstar Bets stands out for its user-friendly bet builder, broad sports coverage, and commitment to responsible gaming. With legitimate licensing from the AGCO and expansion into Canada’s grey market, bettors across the country can trust Northstar to provide a secure and regulated platform.
3. Bet99
Company | Top Feature | Action |
---|---|---|
Our Pick for Player Prop Bets AGCO licence number: OPIG1235604 |
Owned by | Sports Venture Holdings Inc. (SVH) |
License | Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario + Kahnawake Gaming Commission |
Based in | Toronto, Ontario |
Available in | All Canadian Provinces |
Bet99 has made strong efforts to collaborate with Canadian sports culture and community engagement practices, partnering up with sports figures such as UFC Hall of Famer Georges St-Pierre and Olympian Alysha Newman.
Bet99 has also made some notable contributions and donations to local charities, such as $25,000 donation to the Auston Matthew's Movember, a campaign to raise awareness for men's health issues, as well as raising more than $28,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society through their annual Bet99 Classic event.
For bettors looking to support the Canadian economy and local initiatives with their business, Bet99 is a fantastic option.
Sports Betting: What Do They Offer?
Bet99 is a strong choice for Canadian sports bettors, especially those who value player prop bets, same game parlays, and deep coverage of popular North American sports like NHL, NBA, NFL, and soccer. With up to 36 sports available, competitive odds, a sleek mobile app, and a user-friendly interface, Bet99 delivers a smooth betting experience. Features like bet builders, quick single betting, and a dedicated player props section help it stand out from competitors. It also offers a wide range of Canadian-friendly payment options and solid customer support through live chat, email, and social media.
While Bet99 is an excellent sportsbook overall, there’s room for improvement. Withdrawal speeds could be quicker, the minimum deposit of $20 might be high for some users, and there’s still limited live streaming and support for niche sports compared to leaders like Bet365. Still, Bet99 remains a top pick for Canadian players, especially those looking for value odds, local sports integrations, and a platform that’s truly geared towards the Canadian market.
4. Rivalry
Company | Top Feature | Action |
---|---|---|
Our Pick for eSports AGCO licence number: OPIG1237762 |
Owned by | Rivalry Corp. |
License | Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario |
Based in | Toronto, Ontario |
Available in | Only available in Ontario |
Rivalry has established itself not only as a leading job creator in Ontario’s iGaming industry but also as an active contributor to charitable causes. Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, Rivalry took part in the WeSave! Charity Play Dota 2 tournament, with all proceeds supporting the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and GlobalGiving. In 2023, the company also reported $1.09 million in taxes paid to the province. For bettors in Ontario, Rivalry represents a responsible, homegrown option, supporting the local economy and community-focused initiatives.
Sports Betting: What Do They Offer?
Rivalry stands out as Canada’s premier destination for eSports betting, offering unmatched coverage of 20+ titles, live streaming, and unique features like same-game parlays. The site and iOS app are sleek, smooth, and packed with handy tools for finding odds and games fast. Rivalry’s gamified experience, weekly leaderboards, and learning-focused “Academy” make it a great choice for both new and seasoned eSports bettors. Payment options include crypto and e-wallets, with solid customer support via live chat and email, though there’s no phone support or Android app yet.
Where Rivalry falls short is in its traditional sports and casino offerings. The sportsbook covers only the most popular leagues, and the casino feels like an afterthought. If you're a casual sports bettor, it may suffice, but dedicated sports fans will likely crave more variety and markets. Still, for eSports fans in Ontario, Rivalry offers one of the most engaging and purpose-built platforms around.
Canadian-Owned Sportsbooks FAQ
As of April 2025, there are at least 7 Canadian-owned sportsbooks available to Canadians. However, some of these are only available to those who reside in the province the site operates in. These sportsbooks are available to all Canadians: Sports Interaction, Bet99, and NorthStar Bets.
Canadian-owned sportsbooks that are licensed in Canada must pay taxes on their revenue that is reinvested into the local economy for services like healthcare and education. As opposed to international betting sites that do not pay any taxes on revenue generated within the country. By supporting homegrown betting sites in Canada, you are ensuring that your business is supporting the local economy.
Unfortunately, no they do not. All of Canada, outside of Ontario, finds itself in a grey market. Meaning all profits generated by international sportsbooks are untaxed in Canada.
Although international betting sites don't contribute to the Canadian economy, there are a few who pursue community focused initiatives. These operators have pushed for more responsible gambling initiatives, like BetVictor appointing NBA All-Star Tracy McGrady as its Safer Gambling Ambassador for Canada. These initiatives help reduce unhealthy betting practices among Canadian bettors.