This newsletter is available in alternate formats on request. |
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Apply for the Manitoba Accessibility Fund: Intake Now Open for 2026/27 |
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The Manitoba Accessibility Fund is now open for the 2026/27 intake. Start preparing your application and apply today. |
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Eligible applicants include registered charities, non-profit organizations, local businesses, on-reserve entities and municipalities based in Manitoba. Approved projects can receive up to 100 per cent of eligible costs, to a maximum of $50,000 per application. |
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Projects must align with accessibility standards under The Accessibility for Manitobans Act, focusing on customer service, employment or information and communication. Each project must also meet at least one of the following objectives: |
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raise awareness about preventing and removing barriers develop tools, resources and training to support compliance with The Accessibility for Manitobans Act and accessibility standards remove barriers to information and communication electronically, in print and in-person
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The application deadline is February 20, 2026. |
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For more information about the Manitoba Accessibility Fund grant program for 2026/27, visit AccessibilityMB.ca. |
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Thank you for your continued commitment to making Manitoba an accessible province for all. |
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Provide Your Feedback: Public Consultation on The Accessibility for Manitobans Act Penalties Regulation is OPEN |
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The Accessibility Compliance Secretariat is part of the Manitoba government. Its job is to help make sure organizations follow the rules under The Accessibility for Manitobans Act and its regulations. This includes promoting accessibility, monitoring progress and enforcing compliance when needed. |
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On December 3, 2025, the government posted a proposed regulation about penalties for not following accessibility laws. It is now open for public feedback on the provincial government’s “Proposed Regulation†website. We encourage you to provide your feedback. |
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You can share your thoughts until February 2, 2026. |
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What is an Administrative Penalty? |
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An administrative penalty is a fine for not following legal or regulatory requirements. These penalties are issued by government officials responsible for enforcing compliance. |
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The Accessibility Compliance Secretariat uses a compliance framework that focuses on education and support first. Penalties and enforcement measures—like issuing orders or fines—are used as a last resort for organizations that refuse to comply. |
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Remember: Penalties do not apply to individuals in their personal lives or homes. Education comes first. The Secretariat works with organizations by providing tools, resources and feedback to help them comply. Penalties are reserved for organizations that choose not to comply.
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Available in Alternate Formats or Through a Communication Support: Meeting Your Customers Communication Needs |
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Does your organization provide an active offer on your communication pieces? This can include a statement that simply says “This communication piece is available in alternate formats or through a communication supportâ€. |
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As an organization operating in Manitoba, according to the Accessible Information and Communication Standard Regulation, you need to consider the ways in which your customers interact with or access the information your organization provides. When a customer makes a request for information to be provided in an alternative format or through a communication support, it is best to consult with the person making the request to determine how to remove the barrier. When a request is made, ensure your employees are equipped to provide the material in a timely manner. |
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Employees should: consult with the person making the request to identify a support or a format that removes the barrier provide the format in a timely manner not charge the person making the request more than what you would charge to someone who did not make the request
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On January 6, 2026, Dakota Community Centre proudly unveiled two new accessible viewing platforms in the North and South indoor ice arenas at the Jonathan Toews Sportsplex, marking a significant milestone in advancing community inclusion and accessibility. |
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Upcoming Learning Opportunity |
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Understand the Role and Responsibilities of the Accessibility Compliance Secretariat |
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Learn about the Accessibility Compliance Secretariat’s role in advancing Manitoba’s accessibility laws. Any organization with obligations under The Accessibility for Manitobans Act will benefit from attending this webinar. You will hear about the secretariat’s role and responsibilities and discover how its staff work with organizations to remove barriers, so Manitobans with disabilities can participate equally in fundamental aspects of daily life. |
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Webinar Details: Date: January 20, 2026 Time: 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Where: Virtual via Zoom
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