The objective of the Opportunities Fund is to assist persons with disabilities in preparing for and obtaining employment or selfemployment, as well as developing the skills necessary to maintain that new employment.
The Opportunities Fund supports a broad array of employment activities for unemployed persons with disabilities who are not normally eligible for employment benefits under the Employment Insurance Act.
Examples of suitable activities include but are not limited to the following:
encouraging employers to provide work opportunities and experience to individuals;
assisting individuals to start their own business;
providing work experience that can lead to on-going employment;
assisting individuals to increase their employment skill level; and
providing the personal supports required to enable individuals to participate in employment and employment services provided by project applicants.
To be eligible as a participant, an individual must self-identify as having a permanent physical or mental disability, be unemployed (or working less than an average of 20 hours per week), be legally entitled to work in Canada and be in need of assistance to prepare for and keep employment or self-employment.
Participants must normally not be eligible for supports under the Employment Insurance Act.
While participating in activities, financial assistance in the form of contributions may be made to cover certain living expenses, transportation and dependant care. The costs of special arrangements or devices to accommodate a person with a disability may also be available. Where possible, the costs will be shared with the recipient.
If you are interested in applying for the program, you should contact the Service Canada Centre nearest you. This fact sheet and other information on the Opportunities Fund can be obtained in Alternate Formats through TeleFlash. To order, please call 1 888 844 4477. Requested documents are automatically produced in the format selected and mailed directly to the caller. For TTY/TTD services, dial 1 800 465 7735.