Funding for Accessibility Upgrades
Beach mobility mats are among the accessibility improvements eligible for funding through the ACCESS-Ability programs. (Province of Nova Scotia / File)
The Province is investing $1.6 million to improve accessibility at community spaces and businesses across Nova Scotia.
Seventy-nine organizations are receiving grants for projects ranging from ramps to assistive technology. Recipients include non-profit societies, municipalities, public institutions and businesses.
“These grants are about removing barriers for people with disabilities and making sure Nova Scotians can participate fully in their communities,” said Dave Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage. “Each of these projects helps build an inclusive province where everyone belongs.”
Funding is provided through two programs administered by the Department: the Community ACCESS-Ability Program and the Business ACCESS-Ability Grant Program. Both programs cover up to two-thirds of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $50,000.
Eligible projects include physical improvements such as ramps, accessible washrooms and automatic door openers, as well as upgrades to signage, assistive technology, communications and transportation.
The investments support the Province’s commitment to enabling an accessible Nova Scotia by 2030, in alignment with the Accessibility Act.
Quotes:
“The Northside Community Pool is grateful for the support of the Province through the Community ACCESS-Ability Program. This funding will allow us to add a pool lift, accessible stairs and a new diving board, removing barriers and making the pool more inclusive for people of all ages and abilities. These improvements will make a lasting difference for our community.”
— Taylor Maxwell, Aquatic Director, Northside Community Pool, Sydney Mines
Quick Facts:
- Access Awareness Week in Nova Scotia takes place from May 31 to June 6
- the Province’s accessibility strategy, Access by Design 2030, outlines how the government aims to improve accessibility through standards for the built environment, education, employment, goods and services, and information and communication
- the Built Environment Accessibility Standard was the first to be established and it applies as of April 1, 2026
Additional Resources:
More information about the Community ACCESS-Ability Program, as well as the list of grant recipients, is available at: https://cch.novascotia.ca/investing-our-future/community-funding-and-awards/community-access-ability-program
More information about the Business ACCESS-Ability Grant Program, as well as the list of grant recipients, is available at: https://cch.novascotia.ca/business-access-ability-grant-program
Access by Design 2030: Achieving an Accessible Nova Scotia: https://novascotia.ca/accessibility/access-by-design/
Accessibility Act: https://nslegislature.ca/sites/default/files/legc/statutes/accessibility.pdf