The Canadian government is prioritizing an inclusive workforce by promoting accessibility in workplaces across the country. The initiative seeks to ensure that every Canadian has the chance to contribute their talents and thrive.
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of accessibility and inclusion in Canada’s workplaces. Among Canadians with disabilities aged 15-64 who are not employed, over 1 million could work if they could access a fully inclusive labour market. To remove barriers in workplaces and communities, the Government of Canada supports accessibility infrastructure projects to help ensure persons with disabilities can participate and contribute to our society and economy.
Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, announced funding of over $35 million under the Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) for 564 accessible infrastructure projects across Canada. As a result of two EAF calls for proposals launched in 2024, $34.3 million will support 405 projects under the small projects component, and $1,462,251 will support 159 new youth-driven accessibility projects under the youth innovation component.
The EAF will help build more accessible, safe, and inclusive workplaces and communities across Canada for persons with disabilities. Its small projects component supports construction, renovation and retrofit projects that will help increase accessibility, safety, and inclusion for persons with disabilities in communities and workplaces.
Through the youth innovation component, the EAF empowers young Canadians to partner with local organizations to design and deliver accessibility projects. This hands-on experience helps youth develop leadership skills, supports inclusion, and empower positive change in their communities.
Together, these initiatives under the EAF advance the objectives of the Government of Canada’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan, building an inclusive economy, supporting equitable participation, and empowering persons with disabilities to fully contribute to every aspect of Canadian life.
