What is the EnAbling Change Partnership Program?
Through the EnAbling Change Partnership Program, the Ontario government is working with non-profit organizations to develop and fund projects that will improve accessibility for people with disabilities. These projects will develop tools and resources that can be used by other organizations across the province to break down barriers that prevent people with disabilities from participating in day-to-day activities.
Who can apply?
The lead organization on the application must be a non-profit trade or service organization that has been incorporated for at least one year and is located in Ontario. Public sector organizations, private for-profit organizations and individuals are not eligible to apply as the lead organization. However, they may participate as secondary partners and be involved in project design and/or implementation.
How do I apply?
The application process has two stages:
- Stage One - Interested applicants must complete and submit a letter of interest. Submissions will be reviewed to identify projects that most closely match the objectives of the EnAbling Change Partnership Program.
- Stage Two - Short-listed applicants will be contacted and asked to submit a detailed proposal for their projects. The Ministry of Community and Social Services will work with organizations to finalize proposals. If approved, a contract will be signed by the ministry and partners.
When is our Letter of Interest due?
Letters of interest are due by June 30, 2008. Submissions received on or before this date will receive priority consideration. Submissions received after this date will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
How will we know if our project makes it to the second stage?
Ministry staff will contact the lead organization to ask for a detailed project proposal. The ministry will then work closely with organizations to finalize the detailed project proposals.
What types of costs does the program cover?
The EnAbling Change Partnership Program has a total of $1 million to fund projects in 2008/09. The ministry will share project development and implementation costs, as well as contribute expertise to make the project successful. Partners must contribute a minimum of 25 per cent of the total project cost.
Eligible costs for ministry contribution are:
- salaries for staff and consultants directly involved in the project
- production of products, such as publications
- project administration and coordination.
What is not covered under this funding program?
The program does not fund:
- expenses such as equipment, furniture or building redesign
- administrative, operational or overhead expenses related to an organization’s ongoing business activities
- therapy programs, counselling or support groups
- Workplace accommodation or other accessibility measures already required under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
What is the maximum amount per proposal that one can apply for?
There is no maximum funding amount. Final project costs will be negotiated during Stage Two of the application process.
Where can I get an application package?
You can download the letter of interest or call:
Toll Free: 1-866-515-2025
TTY: 416-325-3408
TTY Toll-free: 1-800-268-7095
Where do I send in my completed Letter of Interest?
You can send in the completed Letter of Interest directly to the Accessibility Directorate of Ontario:
ATTN: Bonnie Han / Fran Reinders
EnAbling Change Partnership Program
Accessibility Directorate of Ontario
Ministry of Community and Social Services
777 Bay Street, Suite 601A
Toronto, Ontario
M7A 2J4
Fax: 416-326-9725
Email: accessibility@css.gov.on.ca