Enabling Accessibility Fund

Up to $3 Million in Grant Funding Available for Inclusive Communities and Workplaces 

Program components

The EAF consists of three distinct program components, each with separate calls for funding and specific eligibility criteria defined during each funding process.

1. Youth Innovation Component

Objective:

• Engage youth in identifying and addressing accessibility barriers in their communities.

Funding:

• Up to $12,000 per project.

Example Projects:

• Purchasing para-hockey sleds.
• Building raised garden beds in a community garden.
• Providing accessible beach mats and beach wheelchairs.
• Purchasing voice recognition software.

Eligible Applicants:

• Youth aged 15 to 30: Youth within this age range are encouraged to identify accessibility barriers in their communities and work with local organizations to address these issues.

Partner Organizations:

• Local Organizations: Youth applicants must partner with local organizations such as non-profits, community groups, or municipal organizations to implement the project.

2. Small Projects Component

Objective:

• Fund small-scale construction and communication technology projects to improve accessibility in communities and workplaces.

Funding:

• Up to $200,000 per project.

Example Projects:

• Building ramps, accessible doors, and accessible washrooms.
• Installing screen reader devices and hearing loop systems.
• Constructing a universally designed office.
• Creating an accessible playground.

Eligible Applicants:

• Not-for-Profit Organizations: Organizations that operate on a non-profit basis.
• For-Profit Organizations (Small Businesses): Businesses with fewer than 100 employees.
• Municipalities: Local governments including cities, towns, and villages.
• Indigenous Organizations: This includes band councils, tribal councils, and self-government entities.
• Territorial Governments: Governments of Canadian territories (e.g., Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut).

3. Mid-Sized Projects Component

Objective:

• Support larger construction projects that include persons with disabilities in community activities or the labor market.

Funding:

• Up to $3 million per project.

Example Projects:

• Constructing, renovating, or expanding centres or hubs that offer programming and services for persons with disabilities.

Eligible Applicants:

• Not-for-Profit Organizations: Organizations that operate on a non-profit basis.
• Municipalities: Local governments including cities, towns, and villages.
• Indigenous Organizations: This includes band councils, tribal councils, and self-government entities.
• Territorial Governments: Governments of Canadian territories (e.g., Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut).