PEC Chamber of Commerce
Micro-Grant for
Accessibility
Improvements
Funding to help Prince Edward County businesses make meaningful accessibility improvements for customers, employees, and visitors — because an accessible PEC is good for everyone.
Projects must be complete
by May 21, 2026
Small improvements. Real impact.
The Micro-Grant for Accessibility Improvements was developed in partnership with the municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee and is partially funded through Municipal Accommodations Tax revenue. It supports businesses that want to go beyond compliance — making Prince Edward County a more welcoming place for people of all abilities.
This program focuses on the practical, near-term changes that can make a real difference: a hearing loop at a service counter, an accessible menu, a digital upgrade for screen readers, or a ramp at a front entrance.
"Accessibility isn't just about compliance — it's about ensuring that everyone who lives in, works in, and visits Prince Edward County can fully participate in our community."
— Duarte Da Silva, CEO, PEC Chamber of Commerce
Types of eligible projects
- Ramps, accessible entrances, doors & restrooms
- Hearing loops, AAC devices & assistive technologies
- Website & digital accessibility upgrades
- Accessible menus, large print & Braille materials
- Adaptive furniture & equipment for customers or staff
- Staff training for inclusive & accessible service delivery
Program funded by
Municipal Accommodations Tax revenue, administered by the Prince Edward County Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee.
Three steps to apply
The process is straightforward. Start by attending a free Info Session, then submit your application online.
Attend an Info Session
Before applying, you must attend a free Chamber Accessibility Micro-Grant Info Session. These 1–2 hour virtual sessions cover AODA requirements, practical low-cost improvements, and tips to strengthen your application. Minimum two sessions are scheduled.
Submit Your Application
Complete the application form with your business information, a description of the accessibility challenge, your proposed solution, a budget breakdown ($500–$1,000), an impact plan, and your AODA awareness approach. Submit online or request an accessible format.
Receive Funding & Complete
Applications are reviewed by a selection committee. You'll be notified within 2–4 weeks of the deadline. Recipients sign a funding agreement, complete their project by May 21, 2026, and submit a final report with receipts and before/after evidence.
Funds are disbursed on a reimbursement or milestone basis. You'll receive payment within 10 business days of submitting complete documentation (receipts or milestone evidence) as specified in your funding agreement.
Program timeline
All milestones are tied to the 2026 Service Agreement with the County of Prince Edward.
Applications & Info Sessions Open
Rolling intake begins. Register for a free Info Session to get started. Sessions offered virtually.
Accessibility Workshops Complete
All Info Session / workshop dates delivered by this date. Attend early to maximize your application preparation time.
Grant Recipients Announced
Recipients notified. Signed funding agreements executed. Unsuccessful applicants notified with brief feedback.
Projects Complete
All funded projects must be completed by this date. Final receipts and evidence submitted to the Chamber.
Final Reports to County
Recipient completion reports compiled and submitted to the County. Program closes.
Who can apply & what qualifies
Review the requirements before starting your application. All applicants must attend an Info Session before applying.
Physical upgrades — ramps, accessible entrances, doors, and restrooms
Assistive technologies and communication aids (hearing loops, AAC devices)
Digital accessibility enhancements — website, point-of-sale, online services
Accessible printed materials — large print, Braille, plain language
Adaptive furniture and equipment for staff or customers with disabilities
Staff training and professional development for accessibility awareness
General maintenance not linked to accessibility improvements
Ongoing operating expenses — utilities, wages not related to accessibility
Projects required solely for building code compliance (unless exceeding minimums)
Purchase of products or inventory for resale
Mobility / Physical Access — removing physical barriers to entry and movement
Vision / Visual Accessibility — large print, Braille, wayfinding, contrast improvements
Hearing / Auditory Accessibility — hearing loops, captioning, visual alerts
Cognitive / Intellectual Accessibility — plain language, clear signage, simplified processes
Digital Accessibility — screen reader compatibility, accessible websites, digital tools
Communication Accessibility — AAC devices, accessible formats, inclusive service training
Evaluation criteria
Applications are reviewed by a committee of Chamber staff/board members and a community advisor with accessibility expertise. Each criterion is scored 1–4.
Accessibility Impact
30%Significantly removes or prevents multiple barriers for people with disabilities.
Feasibility & Readiness
25%Fully costed, realistic timeline, qualified vendors identified.
Community Benefit
20%Benefits a broad or vulnerable population; strong public reach.
Sustainability
15%Clear long-term maintenance plan; ongoing accessibility commitment.
AODA Alignment
10%Integrates AODA training; meets or exceeds AODA standards.
Funding tiers by score
Your total score (out of 100%) determines the grant amount.
Applications scoring below 55% are not funded. The applicant may be invited to revise and resubmit.
🏆 Accessibility Champions
Successful recipients may be recognized publicly as Accessibility Champions. With your consent, your project may be featured as a case study in Chamber communications to inspire other businesses across Prince Edward County.
Frequently asked questions
Ready to make your business more accessible?
Start by registering for a free Info Session, then complete your application. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
