The Manitoba government will distribute more than $820,000 to 33 organizations across the province to remove barriers and improve accessibility in workplaces and communities.
The funding comes through the Manitoba Accessibility Fund’s 2025-26 grant program, which supports municipalities, non-profit organizations, businesses and educational institutions in their efforts to comply with provincial accessibility legislation.
“Every Manitoban deserves to live, work and play in communities where everyone belongs, and no one is left behind,” said Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, who is responsible for accessibility. “Our government is committed to building a more inclusive Manitoba, and through the Manitoba Accessibility Fund, we are empowering communities, organizations and institutions to remove barriers and create spaces where everyone can participate fully and equally.”
Grant program targets barrier removal
The annual grant program provides one-time, project-based funding to help organizations remove barriers, create awareness and support compliance with the Accessibility for Manitobans Act.
Projects must meet at least one of three objectives: raise awareness about preventing and removing barriers, develop tools and training to support compliance with legislated standards, or remove barriers to information and communication in electronic, print and in-person formats.
Among this year’s funded projects is an initiative to develop training on the Accessible Information and Communication Standard Regulation for Community Futures Manitoba staff in 16 rural and northern Manitoba areas.
“Community Futures Manitoba is excited to partner with the Manitoba government through the Manitoba Accessibility Fund grant,” said Jason Denbow, executive director of Community Futures Manitoba. “We look forward to helping rural and northern entrepreneurs learn how to better prevent and remove barriers for their customers.”
Program shows continued growth
The Manitoba Accessibility Fund is now in its fourth year of operation. Since its launch, the program has funded 142 accessibility projects worth more than $3 million across the province.
The funding addresses workplace accessibility challenges that employers face when implementing inclusive practices and ensuring compliance with provincial accessibility standards. Organizations can use grants to develop training materials, modify communication systems, and create resources that help businesses meet their legal obligations under accessibility legislation.
Recipients include a mix of municipalities, non-profit organizations, businesses and educational institutions working to create more accessible environments for employees, customers and community members.
For employers seeking to improve workplace accessibility, the funded projects serve as examples of practical approaches to barrier removal and compliance with accessibility standards. The program demonstrates government support for businesses and organizations investing in inclusive workplace practices.
