Subsidy for universal access to businesses
Montréal, QC, Canada
The PAAC aids retailers in making their buildings accessible to customers with limited mobility.
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|closingDateDecember 31, 2024
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Retail trade
grant_single|grantors
- City of Montreal (MTL)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
The program promotes universal building accessibility so individuals of all abilities can independently utilize retail services. Owners and tenants of commercial spaces can receive subsidies to remove entrance and exit barriers, enhance indoor mobility, and make bathroom facilities accessible.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant is specific to the Montréal agglomeration as mentioned in the eligibility section. Applicants must ensure they meet the geographical criteria outlined by the grant.
- Montréal agglomeration
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$18,000
Toronto
Installing ramps and widening doors for improved internal circulation
$35,000
Ottawa
Enhancing washrooms and installing lift platform for accessibility
$27,000
Calgary
Enhancing indoor circulation and bathroom accessibility
$40,000
Vancouver
Renovating store entrance and bathrooms to improve accessibility
$28,000
Québec
Replacing entry doors and installing outdoor ramps for better access
$25,000
Halifax
Installing lift platform and automatic door opener
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The eligibility criteria for the Retail Business Accessibility Program (PAAC) are outlined to ensure applicants meet specific conditions concerning ownership, location, and construction standards compliance.
- The applicant must be an owner or tenant of a building used for commercial activities located in the Montréal agglomeration.
- The planned work must be intended to make access to the building compliant with barrier-free design standards as set out in the applicable Code or regulations at the time of application.
- There must be no existing compliant access to the building from the street other than from an alleyway.
- Confirmation from an authorized professional must be obtained, stating that the building met barrier-free construction standards either at the time of its construction or its most recent renovation, according to the Code and applicable regulations.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Owners or tenants of buildings used for commercial activities within the Montréal agglomeration who plan to conduct accessibility improvements in compliance with barrier-free design standards are eligible to apply for the PAAC.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This grant focuses on improving accessibility in retail business buildings to ensure customers with limited mobility can access services independently. Eligible projects involve alterations to enhance building access, indoor circulation, and bathroom facilities.
- Replacement of a door providing access to the building from the street and the commercial space.
- Installation of an electric door opener providing access to the building from the street and the commercial space.
- Installation of a bevelled plan.
- Installation of a ramp or lift platform.
- Work to improve indoor circulation, such as levelling the floors, widening the door and change rooms, installing an elevator and lift platform.
- Work that facilitates access to dedicated washrooms for clients with limited mobility.
- Replacement of toilets.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers specific expenses for improving accessibility to and within commercial buildings.
- Replacement of a door providing access to the building from the street and the commercial space.
- Installation of an electric door opener providing access to the building from the street and the commercial space.
- Installation of a bevelled plan.
- Installation of a ramp or lift platform.
- Work to improve indoor circulation, such as levelling the floors, widening the door and changing rooms, installing an elevator and lift platform.
- Work that facilitates access to dedicated washrooms for clients with limited mobility.
- Replacement of toilets.
- Professional services provided by architects, engineers, and technologists, if they are required to complete the work.
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant.
- Applicants must be owners or tenants of buildings used for commercial activities in the Montréal agglomeration.
- The work planned should aim to make the building compliant with the barrier-free design standards.
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Gather Required Documents (Preparation)
- Complete the application form specific to the Retail Business Accessibility Program (PAAC).
- Obtain a letter of compliance signed by an authorized professional confirming adherence to barrier-free design standards at the time of construction or renovation.
- For building owners, provide a document confirming ownership from the Land Register of Quebec.
- If applicable, include documentation establishing the mandate of any acting representative.
- Prepare at least one itemized estimate for all planned work.
- For tenants, ensure you have a lease document and a form certifying owner consent for the work.
- Step 2: Submit Application (Submission)
- Compile all required documents into a complete application package.
- Send the entire application package via email to [email protected] by December 31, 2024.
- Step 3: Receive Confirmation (Acknowledgment)
- Wait for an eligibility notice confirming your application status.
- Step 4: Execute Work (Execution)
- Obtain necessary permits for the eligible work.
- Ensure the work is completed by a licensed contractor within 12 months from the notice of eligibility.
- Step 5: Submit Completion Documents (Verification)
- Submit certification from an authorized professional confirming the work meets the necessary standards.
- Provide invoices, proof of payment, and any permits related to the completed work.
- Include photographs and a summary of the work.
- Step 6: Receive Payment (Disbursement)
- Upon verification, receive the subsidy as a full payment via cheque or electronic transfer.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The subsidy will not be provided for work that begins before the subsidy application is deemed eligible.
- Once eligibility is confirmed, the work must be completed within 12 months of the eligibility notice date.
- Eligible work must be performed by a contractor with the proper licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec.
- Payments will be made in one installment, either by cheque or electronic payment, after the completion of the eligible work.
Apply to this program
Enhancing Accessibility for Retail Businesses
The Retail Business Accessibility Program (PAAC) offers substantial financial assistance to retail business owners or tenants wishing to improve accessibility for clients with limited mobility. It focuses on ensuring all individuals can access retail services independently, with up to 90% of eligible renovation costs covered, not exceeding $15,000.
Understanding the Retail Business Accessibility Program
The Retail Business Accessibility Program, known as PAAC, is designed to help commercial building owners and tenants in the Montréal agglomeration create a more inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of their mobility limitations. This program is especially crucial for retail establishments seeking to align with modern accessibility standards, thereby expanding their customer base and enhancing their reputation within the community.
Financially, the PAAC stands out by offering an impressive subsidy that can cover up to 90% of eligible renovation costs. This allows businesses to undertake significant accessibility improvements without bearing the full financial burden. The subsidy focuses on three primary alterations: reducing barriers in building entrances and exits, improving indoor circulation, and ensuring access to washroom facilities for clients with limited mobility. These categories cover a wide range of potential projects, such as installing ramps, electric door openers, or even lifts.
For retailers, the appeal of PAAC extends beyond financial assistance. The program aids in complying with the barrier-free design standards stipulated in building codes and regulations. This compliance is not just a regulatory requirement but also a community responsibility, recognizing the importance of inclusivity in today’s diverse society. Implementing these changes can significantly impact customer satisfaction and foot traffic, boosting overall business performance.
To take advantage of this program, applicants must navigate a straightforward yet rigorous application process. Owners and tenants must provide several documents, including professional confirmation of compliance with current building codes, itemized estimates of the planned work, and, in the case of tenants, proof of consent from the building owner. Such documentation ensures that the renovations carried out meet specific standards and are completed in an organized and legal manner.
Post-renovation, the submission of detailed invoices, payment proof, and photographic evidence of the completed work is necessary for grant reimbursement. This meticulous follow-up process encourages transparency and accountability, two principles essential for the successful implementation of any publicly funded initiative.
Moreover, the program mandates that all renovations be completed within one year of receiving the eligibility notice, encouraging timely modifications that quickly benefit both the businesses and their customer bases. The emphasis on using licensed professionals further assures quality and adherence to safety guidelines, reinforcing the confidence that retailers and clients have in the structural changes undertaken.
Ultimately, the Retail Business Accessibility Program not only supports businesses aiming towards a more accessible future but also enriches the societal fabric by promoting inclusivity. Retailers who utilize this program may find themselves at a distinct advantage as they can cater to a broader audience, enjoy enhanced customer loyalty, and embrace a forward-thinking approach that aligns with modern values of equality and accessibility.
