Vehicle Retrofit Program — Persons with disabilities
NB, Canada
Funds to make vehicles accessible
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateJuly 09, 2024
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Transportation and warehousing
grant_single|grantors
- Government of New Brunswick
- Transportation and Infrastructure
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
If you offer transportation to people with disabilities, you can get up to $8,000 to cover 80% of the costs of vehicle retrofitting requirements.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant is aimed at entities and individuals located specifically within the Province of New Brunswick. Only organizations, municipalities, and companies operating in New Brunswick qualify for this financial assistance program.
- Entities based within the Province of New Brunswick.
- Individuals residing in New Brunswick.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$4,800
Adding special needs seating to our shuttle service
$3,360
Retrofitting a taxi with hand controls for drivers with disabilities
$6,800
Installing a wheelchair lift in a community bus to increase accessibility
$6,400
Upgrading a community van with a ramp and hand controls
$5,600
Installing wheelchair tie-downs in school buses
$4,800
Adding an accessible roof and floor modifications to a transportation van
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for private companies applying for this grant involves the following specific requirements:
- The company must be based in New Brunswick.
- The company must provide transportation services to persons with a disability within New Brunswick.
- The applicant must demonstrate a serious commitment to maintaining the accessible transportation service in operation long-term.
- The company must be, or will be, licensed to operate a transportation service for disabled persons in their locality.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible applicants for the Ability NB’s Vehicle Retrofit Program include individual residents of New Brunswick, registered non-profit organizations, municipalities within New Brunswick, and private companies that provide transportation services to persons with disabilities within the province. The vehicle must be primarily for personal use and have a valid Safety Inspection Sticker.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This grant assists individuals and organizations in enhancing vehicle accessibility for persons with disabilities. It focuses on funding modifications that improve vehicle access and usability.
- Installation of wheelchair or scooter lifts and ramps.
- Alterations to the roof, floor, and doors when part of an accessibility retrofit.
- Implementation of special needs seating arrangements.
- Installation of hand control systems for driving.
- Integration of wheelchair tie-downs and occupant restraint systems.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
Eligible expenses for the Ability NB’s Vehicle Retrofit Program include costs associated with certain accessibility features for vehicles.
- Wheelchair/scooter lifts and ramps.
- Roof, floor, and door alterations as part of an accessibility retrofit.
- Special needs seating.
- Hand controls.
- Wheelchair tie downs and occupant restraint systems.
grant_single_labels|criteria
While the provided information includes extensive details about the eligibility requirements and terms and conditions of the grant, it does not specifically outline any evaluation and selection criteria for the Ability NB’s Vehicle Retrofit Program.
nothing
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Verify Eligibility
- Ensure you or your organization meet the eligibility criteria as an individual resident, registered non-profit organization, municipality, or private company based in New Brunswick.
- Confirm that the vehicle is for primary personal use and has a valid Safety Inspection Sticker.
- Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Prepare documentation proving your eligibility, such as proof of residency or organizational registration.
- Compile details of the vehicle to be retrofitted and outline the accessibility features required.
- Gather any existing quotes or invoices for the planned retrofitting work.
- Step 3: Complete Application Form
- Obtain the grant application form from Ability NB or the administering organization.
- Fill out the form with accurate details about the applicant, the vehicle, and the requested retrofitting work.
- Step 4: Submit Application
- Send the completed application form along with supporting documents to Ability NB for review.
- Submit by mail or any specified method as indicated by Ability NB.
- Step 5: Await Approval
- Ability NB will review the application to ensure all criteria and documentation are met.
- You will be notified of the application outcome and, if approved, will receive a grant approval letter with further instructions.
- Step 6: Complete Retrofitting Work
- Once approved, arrange for the installation of the approved accessibility features within 6 months of the approval date.
- Ensure all work complies with CSA and SAE standards as applicable.
- Step 7: Submit Proof of Completion
- After completion, submit invoices and proof of work to Ability NB to receive the grant amount.
- Ensure documentation is accurate and complete to facilitate prompt payment.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The grant must be used within 6 months from the date on the letter of approval, with the possibility to request an additional 6-month extension.
- Sales tax on some accessibility features may be rebated by the Department of Finance, Province of New Brunswick, but general taxes are the responsibility of the applicant.
- Accessibility equipment must be installed according to manufacturer's instructions and meet CSA or SAE Standards.
- Ability NB does not accept responsibility for work done by the supplier.
- For organizations, the grant is renewable every 5 years, and for individuals, every 8 years.
Apply to this program
Enhancing Mobility through the Ability NB Vehicle Retrofit Program
The Ability NB Vehicle Retrofit Program provides financial support to increase mobility for individuals with disabilities by assisting with vehicle retrofitting costs. Designed for residents of New Brunswick, the grant covers 80% of eligible modifications, up to $8,000.
A Detailed Look into the Vehicle Retrofit Assistance Grant
The Ability NB Vehicle Retrofit Program, in collaboration with the Department of Social Development, is a pioneering initiative aimed at improving transportation accessibility for individuals with disabilities within New Brunswick. By subsidizing the cost of crucial modifications, this program plays an indispensable role in empowering residents with disabilities to achieve greater independence and integration in their communities. The grant is available to a diverse range of applicants including individual residents, registered non-profit organizations, municipalities, and private companies providing transportation services to persons with disabilities.
Eligible modifications under the program encompass a variety of accessibility features designed to accommodate specific needs. These include the installation of wheelchair and scooter lifts, the adaptation of vehicle roofs, floors, and doors when part of an accessibility retrofit, special needs seating, hand control systems, and wheelchair tie-down and occupant restraint systems. By focusing on these essential upgrades, the program ensures that vehicles become safe and functional for individuals who rely on specialized transit options.
Financially, the program covers a substantial 80% of the cost of installing these accessibility features on either new or existing vehicles, capped at a maximum grant of $8,000. It is important to note that while the grant covers a significant portion of the expenses, the applicant remains responsible for the taxes associated with the modifications. However, there are opportunities to receive sales tax rebates on certain features through the Province of New Brunswick's Department of Finance.
The grant offers a renewal period of every eight years for individual recipients and every five years for organizations, allowing for sustained support over time. To initiate the process, applicants are required to submit detailed plans and cost estimates for the intended modifications, and upon completion of the retrofit, provide an invoice and proof of work along with a valid Safety Inspection Sticker to receive the grant funds. This rigorous process not only ensures accountability but also guarantees that the modifications meet the required safety and quality standards as set by Canadian Standards Association and Society of Automotive Engineers.
By alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with vehicle modifications, the Ability NB Vehicle Retrofit Program provides a pathway for enhanced mobility, fostering greater economic and social participation among people with disabilities. It supports the province's broader mission of inclusive community development by ensuring that transportation is accessible and equitable. The accessibility improvements facilitated by this program can significantly impact the quality of life for users, affording them increased freedom and opportunity to engage in everyday activities such as employment, education, and social interactions.
Overall, the Ability NB Vehicle Retrofit Program is a vital resource that underscores the importance of accessible transportation solutions in building a more inclusive society. Through this initiative, New Brunswick is setting a precedent for other provinces, demonstrating a commitment to support its residents in overcoming barriers to mobility and participation.
