WHEREAS the Measuring Up The North project has identified that many small businesses are located in leased or owned buildings that are not accessible to persons with disabilities or seniors, and many small businesses do not have the financial means to renovate their premises to become accessible; AND WHEREAS making small businesses accessible will benefit customers, clients, and employers, and also result in increased revenue to business owners: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM lobby the provincial government to develop an incentive program to encourage owners of small businesses to make their premises accessible.
Ministry of Small Business, Technology and Economic Development The Province currently provides some assistance for workplace modifications under the Employment Program for Persons with Disabilities EPPD. However, this funding is specific to the employee with disabilities and is not available for small businesses to make general accessibility improvements. Funds for improving the accessibility of small businesses may be available through the Enabling Accessibility Fund, which is offered federally through Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. This fund provides grants and contributions to projects that improve accessibility and enable Canadians, regardless of physical ability, to participate in and contribute to their communities and the economy. Small projects enabling accessibility may be eligible for grants of up to 50,000 to renovate buildings, modify vehicles andor make information and communication more accessible.