How much funding can be received?

The 2024-2026 Tourism Establishment Accessibility Program offers up to $300,000 in funding to support Quebec tourism businesses in enhancing the accessibility of their infrastructures and services for people with disabilities. The program focuses on encouraging responsible, sustainable, and inclusive tourism through innovative projects such as infrastructure improvements and novel equipment acquisition.

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Eligible projects under the PAET grant focus on improving the accessibility of tourism establishments in Quebec, supporting innovative solutions and facilitating inclusive experiences for all visitors. The program provides support for infrastructure enhancements and equipment acquisition that promote accessible tourism.

Infrastructure projects including obstacle-free external paths and entrances, accessible bathrooms, and adapted accommodation facilities.
Innovative equipment like adapted zip lines, accessible climbing walls, audio guides, and tactile models.
Projects enhancing accessibility in large-scale tourist attractions such as zoos and amusement parks.
Collective projects by groups of organizations acquiring shared accessible infrastructure or equipment, like platforms or lifts.

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Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's legal status, affiliation, and sector involvement.

The applicant must be legally constituted under the laws of Quebec or Canada and conduct business in Quebec.
The applicant must be recognized by a tourism association or grouping (such as a regional or sectoral tourism association), be published on BonjourQuebec.com, or be in the process of obtaining tourism recognition. The financial aid is conditional on this recognition.
If required, the applicant must hold or be in the process of obtaining the Qualité-Sécurité Adventure Ecotourism Quebec certification or attestation.
The applicant must belong to one of the eligible tourism sectors under the program.

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The PAET program accepts applications from various legal entities aiming to enhance the accessibility of tourist facilities in Quebec. Eligible applicants encompass a broad range of legally constituted organizations that operate within the tourist sector.

Legally constituted for-profit organizations (OBL) operating in Quebec.
Legally constituted non-profit organizations (OBNL) conducting business in Quebec.
Legally constituted cooperatives involved in tourism activities.
Indigenous organizations, communities, and nations recognized by the National Assembly.
Consortiums or groups formed by any combination of the above entities.

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The PAET grant program has specific exclusions based on the type and status of organizations involved in the application. These exclusions ensure the grant is targeted at non-governmental and strategic tourism sectors.

State-owned enterprises, ministries, and government agencies in Quebec or Canada.
Municipalities, except for non-governmental organizations operating tourist services on municipal properties.
Projects eligible for other specific accessibility programs like the Société d’habitation du Québec's Petits établissements accessibles (PEA).
Companies listed on the register of companies not eligible for public contracts.
Companies that have failed to meet their obligations for previous financial aid from the Quebec Ministry of Tourism within the last two years.
Projects from sectors like alcohol or cannabis consumption, gambling, and general retail, except for specified exceptions like restaurants or designated tourist shops.

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The grant covers expenses related to improving the accessibility of infrastructures and services in the tourism sector.

Professional fees for designing plans and specifications related to accessibility work.
Fees for recognized professionals for project management, supervision, and required reporting.
Costs for preparing and following up on public tender documents for construction work over $100,000.
Certification report costs by an authorized contractor.
Improvement or transformation works on infrastructure to obtain Kéroul's "accessible" rating.
Costs for accessibility-related components of a global project.
Minor repair, maintenance, or renovation work under $20,000.
Expenses for purchasing and installing specialized equipment or furniture.
Costs of acquiring adapted materials to enhance customer experience.
Municipal permit costs.
Net taxes on direct costs.
Contingency fees, up to 15% of the costs.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

This grant is available to companies located specifically in the province of Quebec. The eligible locations ensure that the program supports provincial tourism initiatives.

Companies operating in the province of Quebec, Canada.

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The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on the alignment with the program’s strategic goals and the potential for enhancing tourism accessibility.

Alignment with the program’s objectives to advance accessible tourism facilities and services.
Innovation in solutions addressing accessibility challenges for people with disabilities.
Contribution to responsible and sustainable tourism development.
Feasibility of the proposed project, including technical and financial plans.
Potential impact on enhancing accessibility within the Quebec tourism sector.

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Open a Case
Fill out the initial form to validate the eligibility of your establishment and project.
Step 2: Eligibility Check
A representative from Kéroul will contact you to arrange a visit to your establishment.
Discuss the project, program objectives, and improvements needed to achieve Kéroul's accessibility rating.
Step 3: Prepare Application
Complete the financial aid application form following the recommendations received.
Prepare and include all necessary documents for the evaluation, such as plans, estimates, and financial statements.
Step 4: Submit Application
Ensure all documentation is complete and complies with the application requirements.
Submit the comprehensive application package to Kéroul by the specified date.
Step 5: Application Review
The evaluation committee will convene roughly four times a year to review applications.
The assessment will focus on the project's tourism relevance, commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism, and feasibility.
Step 6: Approval and Funding Confirmation
If approved, you will receive confirmation and details regarding the funding agreement with Kéroul.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

The total budget for the program is $2,000,000.
The program will end on March 31, 2026, or upon depletion of the funds, whichever comes first.
In the event that the number of projects and/or their total costs exceed the available program funds, priority will be given to projects with the highest score in order of the date the complete project submission was received.
The financial assistance awarded requires a public tender process for construction contracts of $100,000 or more.
If an organization's project results in receiving a total public financing of $100,000 or more, and it employs more than 100 staff, it needs to comply with the Equal Access Employment Program.
The projects must comply with the "Policy on the integration of arts into the architecture and environment of public buildings" for construction-related initiatives.
Financial aid is payable in two installments: 60% after signing the financial agreement and 40% upon project completion and compliance verification.
Projects are expected to be completed within 12 months of signing the agreement.

grant_single_labels|documents

Tourism establishment accessibility program

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paet@keroul.qc.ca

Apply to this program

Improving Accessibility in Quebec's Tourism Sector

The 2024-2026 Tourism Establishment Accessibility Program (PAET) provides financial assistance to Quebec tourism businesses aiming to enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Managed by Kéroul, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, the program supports innovative projects that contribute to a more inclusive and accessible tourism experience.

Comprehensive Details About the 2024-2026 Tourism Establishment Accessibility Program

The Tourism Establishment Accessibility Program (PAET) for 2024-2026 is a strategic initiative designed to transform and enhance the tourism experience in Quebec, particularly for individuals with disabilities. Entrusted to Kéroul, a key partner in tourism accessibility since 1987, the program is aligned with the Ministry of Tourism's strategic priorities outlined in its 2023-2027 Plan. The PAET aims to create a more modern, accessible, and inclusive tourism environment that welcomes tourists from all walks of life.

Through this program, tourism businesses, including those offering accommodations, activities, facilities, and services, can receive financial support to make their offerings more accessible. The program is open to various legal entities, including for-profit and non-profit organizations, cooperatives, and Indigenous communities, provided they meet the stipulated eligibility criteria. Notably, the funding can aid projects that ensure their responses are in compliance with recognized accessibility standards such as those outlined in the Kéroul accessibility guide.

The PAET supports infrastructure projects, innovative equipment acquisitions, and collective initiatives. For instance, infrastructure projects may include constructing barrier-free paths and entrances, installing accessible restrooms, or purchasing adaptive equipment like audio guides or tactile models. Innovative projects could utilize adaptive sports equipment or develop unique experiences catering to individuals with different needs, thus enhancing heretofore limited access to popular tourist activities.

The program offers flexibility in financing, with potential grants of up to $100,000 for accessibility enhancements, $50,000 for pioneering projects that improve and diversify accessibility, and $300,000 for collective projects, where multiple organizations collaborate on a shared initiative. The application process is comprehensive, requiring detailed submission of plans, organizational credentials, and financial viability assessments to ensure that the projects have sustainable impact and value.

The PAET not only drives economic benefits by improving tourism appeal and inclusivity but it also stresses the importance of sustainable and responsible tourism practices. The Program encourages tourism businesses to consider long-term impacts and embrace new methods for adapting to the changing demographics and expectations of modern travelers.

Overall, the 2024-2026 PAET is instrumental in advancing the accessibility landscape in Quebec's tourism market. By providing the necessary funding and resources, it enables tourism providers to create memorable travel experiences that are within reach for everyone, regardless of their mobility challenges. This, in turn, supports the broader mission of making Quebec a leading accessible travel destination, fostering social inclusion and economic growth within its vibrant tourism sector.