Deadline: February 13, 2026
The Workplace Opportunities: Removing Barriers to Equity (WORBE) 2026 Call for Proposals is now open. This initiative, funded by the Government of Canada through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) in partnership with Impact Canada, aims to support innovative and results-driven projects that promote workplace diversity, inclusion, and equity across Canada.
Designed to create meaningful change, the WORBE 2026 Call for Proposals invites organisations and eligible entities to propose measurable solutions that address systemic workplace barriers faced by under-represented groups.
About the WORBE 2026 Call for Proposals
The Workplace Opportunities: Removing Barriers to Equity (WORBE) 2026 Call for Proposals focuses on advancing equitable and inclusive workplace practices across Canadian industries. Unlike traditional awareness-raising initiatives, WORBE 2026 emphasises applied, evidence-based strategies that lead to tangible and lasting results.
This funding opportunity supports projects that identify, remove, and prevent employment barriers for designated groups, fostering inclusive growth and representation across workplaces and sectors.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted no later than 13 February 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to prepare and submit their proposals early through the Impact Canada online platform.
Funding Details
Successful applicants may receive up to CAD 500,000 per year for a maximum duration of three years.
Funding will be provided under a pay-for-performance model, ensuring that resources are disbursed in alignment with clearly defined milestones and measurable project outcomes. This structure reinforces accountability and impact-driven delivery.
Objectives of the 2026 WORBE Call
Projects submitted under this call should aim to achieve one or more of the following objectives:
- Identify and eliminate workplace barriers that affect designated groups.
- Improve representation and participation of under-represented groups in workplaces or sectors with historically low inclusion rates.
- Enhance understanding of systemic barriers that hinder workplace diversity and inclusion.
- Develop practical tools, frameworks, or resources that support employers in building equitable workplace cultures.
Each project should demonstrate a clear link between proposed activities and the expected impact on workplace equity and inclusion.
Who Can Apply
Applications are open to a wide range of eligible entities that are legally able to enter into binding agreements in Canada, including:
- Academic institutions
- Employer associations (unionised and non-unionised)
- Federally regulated private sector employers
- Not-for-profit organisations
- Private sector organisations
- Individuals who are incorporated or are willing to incorporate in Canada for the purpose of signing a binding agreement
Note: Entities based outside Canada or unable to legally enter into an agreement in Canada are not eligible to apply.
Assessment Criteria
All proposals will be evaluated based on the following key criteria:
- Alignment with the core objectives of the WORBE programme
- Realistic and feasible implementation plan
- Organisational capacity and readiness to deliver measurable results
- Demonstrated potential to achieve sustainable, long-term impact on workplace equity
Applications that clearly outline measurable outcomes and strong evaluation frameworks are more likely to be prioritised for funding consideration.
Focus Areas
The WORBE 2026 Call for Proposals particularly supports initiatives that promote equity and inclusion for designated groups, including:
- Women
- Indigenous Peoples
- Persons with disabilities
- Members of visible minorities
Projects should address systemic challenges, enhance representation, and contribute to the development of inclusive workplace practices across sectors.
How to Apply
Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit their proposals online through the Impact Canada platform before the deadline. The application process requires a detailed project plan, budget, and clearly defined metrics for success.
Final Thoughts
The Workplace Opportunities: Removing Barriers to Equity (WORBE) 2026 Call for Proposals presents an important opportunity for organisations committed to building inclusive and diverse workplaces. By addressing systemic barriers and promoting equitable participation, this initiative continues to drive forward Canada’s vision for a fair and accessible labour market.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
