SBC Summit Canada 2026 will unite senior decision-makers from across the industry for its dedicated Leaders in Sports Betting & iGaming track, delivering a front row view of the strategies shaping Canada’s next phase of growth.
Taking place on Wednesday, May 20, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, the track will bring together representatives from Canada’s leading operators, affiliates, and regulators, including leading companies such as bet365, BetMGM, DraftKings, and Ontario Lottery and Gaming (OLG).
Against the backdrop of a pivotal year for Canada’s iGaming market, the track will tackle major developments such as Alberta’s impending launch of both sports betting and iGaming and the opportunities tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, focusing on both short-term acquisition and converting momentum into long-term retention.
Sessions will also examine the potential for a centralized self-exclusion system, whether sportsbooks can compete with iGaming in driving sustainable profitability, and the future of online poker in Canada.
Key iGaming sessions to watch
The session ‘World Cup, Endless Possibilities‘, will examine how operators can capitalize on the influx of new bettors during the 2026 World Cup and turn short-term engagement into long-term value. Speakers Andrew Cochrane (CCO, Soft2Bet), Casey Hurbis (CMO, BetMGM), Jeff Laniado (Director of Sales, Optimove), Greg Sindall (Sr Director Digital Sports Product – iSports Product, OLG), and Tim Whitehead (Sportsbook Director, DraftKings) will explore how operators can elevate brand visibility during the tournament and build lasting loyalty by connecting players to domestic competitions such as the Canadian Premier League, CFL, and NHL, as well as the fast-growing esports sector.
Building on this theme, the panel ‘Is Sports Betting Worth It? Evaluating the Role of Sportsbooks in the Canadian Online Gambling Market‘ will assess whether sportsbooks can deliver true growth in a market where online casino continues to dominate. Speakers Jared Beber (CEO, Bet99), Peter K. Czegledy (Lawyer, Aird & Berlis), Matthew Ferrara (Regional Director US, Altenar), Reece Hiland (Assurance Partner, MNP), and Scott Vanderwel (CEO, PointsBet Canada) will examine whether sportsbooks can compete with iGaming in driving profitability, and how player behaviour and risk profiles differ across verticals. Discussions will also explore the role regulation will play in shaping the future of sports betting in Canada.
‘Is a Centralized Self-Exclusion Tool Necessary for Responsible Gambling in Canada’s iGaming Industry?‘ will explore what a nationwide approach to player protection could look like for the industry. Speakers Michelle Eaton (Senior Vice President & Corporate Affairs, OLG), Joseph Hillier (CEO, iGaming Ontario), Aneliya Vu (Chief Compliance Officer, Betty) will examine the feasibility of iGO’s BetGuard centralized self-exclusion system and outline the challenges that must be addressed to bring it to life. Experts will also assess whether such a framework can meaningfully reduce gambling-related harm whilst strengthening responsible gaming standards across Canada.
With Alberta set to launch its regulated market on July 13, attendees will also benefit from several sessions featuring Dale Nally, Alberta’s Minister of Service and Red Tape Reduction. Appearing in both a keynote address and a fireside chat, he will focus on preparing the industry for the province’s entry, offering key insights into the soon-to-be-launched market.
“Being a leader in this industry is about far more than a title,” said Rasmus Sojmark, SBC Founder and CEO. “These figures have earned their positions through strategic thinking, bold decisions, and the vision and leadership needed for success. This track gives attendees a unique opportunity to understand both the mindset behind great leadership and the skills required to develop it.”
Several busy conference tracks
The Leaders in Sports Betting and iGaming track is one of several focused programmes across SBC Summit Canada’s conference agenda.
Over the two days, attendees looking to stay ahead of the latest market developments can also explore tracks covering Affiliates & Advertising, Leaders in Land-Based & Lottery, Player Protection, and Payments & Compliance.
Secure your tickets to SBC Summit Canada now!
VIP Event Pass – Access to the show floor, all conference sessions, and evening networking sessions for C$995
Group VIP Pass – Get VIP Passes for just C$795 each when you buy three or more passes – perfect for bringing the team!
Operators and affiliates can apply for complimentary passes.
