If your organization is working to make spaces more accessible, the RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program could help move your project forward. Here’s a clear, simple breakdown of what matters most.
What is the RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program?
The RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program provides funding for accessibility upgrades to buildings and spaces in Canada.
- Focuses on removing physical barriers for people with disabilities
- Supports real, lasting improvements to the built environment
- Backed by the Rick Hansen Foundation
- Projects must meet recognized accessibility design standards where required
Think ramps, automatic doors, accessible washrooms, improved pathways, and other upgrades that make spaces easier to use.
Who is eligible and who can apply for the RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program?
Your organization must:
- Be located in Canada
- Be a registered charity, qualified donee, or incorporated non-profit
- Provide a CRA registration number or certificate of incorporation
Not eligible:
- Individuals
- Political groups
- Private foundations
- Fee-based private elementary or secondary schools
- Sports teams unless they qualify as a donee
This grant is built for organizations, not individuals.
What does the RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program fund?
Funding supports accessibility infrastructure improvement projects that:
- Take place in Canada
- Are on property you own or lease long-term with at least 5 years remaining
- Remove specific barriers for people with disabilities
- Create permanent physical improvements
- Meet CSA accessibility design standards when required
- Finish by January 31, 2027
Projects must lead to clear, tangible upgrades. Temporary fixes or short-term programs do not qualify.
What are the conditions of the RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program?
There are a few key requirements:
- The maximum request is $40,000
- If your project costs more, you must have other funding secured
- Only expenses after approval are eligible
- Supplier quotes required for items over $10,000
- Professional consulting costs cannot exceed 20 percent of the grant
- Funds cannot be used for community events or plaque installation
Grant recipients must also:
- Host a community engagement event by June 4, 2027
- Install a Rick Hansen Foundation plaque
- Participate in an interview and allow their story to be shared
Applications must be complete and submitted in English or French.
How much funding is available?
- Maximum grant: $40,000 per project
- 90 percent paid after approval
- Final 10 percent paid after final reporting
Does the funding support wheelchair accessible vehicles or mobile medical units?
This program focuses on permanent building improvements.
- It does not appear to support purchasing vehicles
- Mobile medical units or wheelchair accessible vans are not listed as eligible expenses
If your project involves structural upgrades to a facility, it may fit. Vehicle purchases likely would not.
Deadline dates to know
- Application deadline: March 15, 2026 at 11:00 PM PST
- Approval notice: April 16, 2026
- Project must be completed: January 31, 2027
- Final report due: June 11, 2027
Missing a deadline could affect your funding, so planning ahead matters.
Apply today
The RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program is designed to help organizations create safer, more accessible spaces that last. If your facility needs upgrades to remove physical barriers, this funding could help cover part of the cost.
If you have any questions about improving accessibility in your community, don’t hesitate to click the button below to talk to one of our mobility experts.
Note: MoveMobility is not the funding provider and cannot assist with applications. The information shared here comes directly from the funding opportunity. To learn more, visit the RBC Barrier Buster Grants Program. This content is meant to raise awareness of funding or grant opportunities.
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