Small Business Centre provides accessibility grants in Quinte

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The Small Business Centre has announced the 2024 Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) is now open for applications.

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Aimed at promoting accessibility and inclusivity within small businesses and community organizations, it is supported by Employment and Social Development Canada to provide grants of up to $12,000 to help make significant improvements to accessibility within the Bay of Quinte.

Leading this project is Amy Rushlow, Rushlow, an advocate for youth-driven change and accessibility to integrate accessibility as a core value within the Bay of Quinte region.

“I am thrilled to lead this program and collaborate with local small businesses and community organizations to cultivate environments where everyone feels welcomed and valued,” said Rushlow in a release. “Accessibility should be an integral part of every space we enter, and I am eager to support those committed to making a meaningful difference.”

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The Enabling Accessibility Fund has seen remarkable success over the past five years, according to organizers.

Through collaborations with Trenval Business Development Corporation, the region has witnessed 67 successful applications and the issuance of $589,281 in grants. The fund is aimed at facilitating changes that enhance accessibility in facilities, services, and technologies for individuals with disabilities and for current and future employees.

Recent funded projects have included adaptive sports equipment, accessible sensory rooms, noise-canceling headphones, FM loop systems, screen readers, website modifications, raised garden beds, accessible doors, ramps, and audio-visual fire alarms.

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To learn more about the Enabling Accessibility Fund and to access the application guide, please contact Amy Rushlow.

A grant information session is scheduled for October 3.

Please register at: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/enabling-accessibility-fund-virtual-information-session-tickets-1027229139007?keep_tld=1.

As this initiative is youth-led, Ms. Rushlow will provide details and a link for the online application. Applicants are required to complete the application and submit it to Ms. Rushlow for an additional community impact question before final submission. The deadline for applications is November 1, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.

More information can be found at  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TdWBQEfkiY&t=3s.

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