The Territorial Accessibility Fund aims to assist micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in France with making their public buildings accessible for people with reduced mobility. With a budget of €300 million over five years, this initiative supports eligible establishments in undertaking necessary accessibility improvements until 2028. Eligible applicants can receive up to €20,500 in grants for various accessibility projects, including ramps, adapted sanitary facilities, and engineering assistance.

Objectives

The fund specifically addresses the urgent need for compliance among nearly one million public buildings in France that currently do not meet accessibility standards. It provides financial assistance for projects aimed at improving accessibility, including the installation of ramps, modifications to sanitary facilities, and comprehensive accessibility assessments. The goal is to ensure that these establishments can accommodate all visitors, particularly those with mobility challenges.

Beneficiaries

This fund is designed for:

• Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with fewer than 250 employees and annual revenues not exceeding €50 million or total balance sheets not exceeding €43 million.
• Private 5th category public buildings (ERP) that are inaccessible or partially accessible.
• Establishments created before 20 September 2023 and registered in the national business register.
• Associations registered in the national associations register.

Excluded: establishments undergoing judicial liquidation at the time of application.

Eligible operations

Eligible operations include:

• Installation of accessibility equipment such as ramps and adapted sanitary facilities.
• Construction work to enhance accessibility, including removing barriers at entrances.
• Accessibility diagnostics to identify necessary improvements.
• Engineering and project management assistance for executing the works.

Priority will be given to establishments located in municipalities hosting events for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Eligibility conditions

Key eligibility conditions include:

• Compliance with tax and social security obligations.
• Submission of a project plan for accessibility improvements.
• Not being in judicial liquidation at the time of application.
• Establishments must be registered and operational as of the specified date.

Grant amount

The fund covers up to 50% of eligible expenses, with a maximum grant of €20,000 for accessibility works and €500 for diagnostics and project management assistance. The total maximum grant per establishment is capped at €20,500. Multiple applications can be submitted for different types of assistance.