Minister Hajdu invites organizations to apply for funding to improve workplace accessibility
News release
January 16, 2026 Gatineau, Quebec Employment and Social Development Canada
Every worker deserves an equal opportunity and a barrier-free work environment. The Government is focused on building an inclusive workforce with accessible workplaces for all Canadians, where every person has the chance to contribute their talents and thrive.
Today, Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, launched a call for proposals under the Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF).
The EAF is a federal grants and contributions program that supports construction, renovation and retrofit projects across Canada aimed at improving accessibility and safety in communities and workplaces for persons with disabilities.
A total of $12 million will be allocated over three years, starting in 2026-27, to support workplace and community projects that improve accessibility, remove barriers, and enable persons with disabilities to participate in, and contribute to, the Canadian labour market and community life. Approximately $2 million of this CFP will be dedicated to support eligible Indigenous projects, furthering the Government’s commitment to bolster Indigenous organizations by increasing access to funding and help advance accessibility in Indigenous communities.
Over the next three years, the Government of Canada will contribute between $500,000 and $1 million to support each of 12 to 24 eligible accessibility projects.
When we remove barriers, our communities and workplaces become stronger, more compassionate and more just. That is how we build Canada Strong.
Quotes
“Creating a stronger, inclusive and barrier-free Canada is not just the right thing to do, it’s ensuring everyone can reach their full potential. Through programs like the Enabling Accessibility Fund, we’re creating opportunities, removing barriers in workplaces, and making sure no one is left behind. Together, we are building Canada strong.”
– The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
Quick facts
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Data shows that the employment rate of working-aged persons with disabilities is lower (68 per cent) than those without disabilities (78 per cent), and that 42 per cent of working-aged persons with disabilities have employment capabilities.
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Under this 2026 EAF CFP, the Government of Canada is expected to support 12 to 24 eligible accessibility projects.
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Since the EAF’s inception in 2007, over 8,100 accessibility projects across the country have been funded, helping thousands of Canadians gain access to programs, services, and employment opportunities in their communities.
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Contacts
For media enquiries, please contact:
Jennifer Kozelj
Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Job and Families
Jennifer.kozelj@labour-travail.gc.ca
343-540-6643
Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
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