Who can apply for the Government of Canada DEI funds?

The call targets projects that benefit federally regulated private-sector workplaces. Typically, organizations that can deliver national or sector-focused programming may apply, often in partnership with employer groups. Applicants should demonstrate capacity to implement, measure outcomes, and sustain improvements aligned with inclusion and harassment prevention objectives.

What are the key deadlines for this funding?

Proposals are due February 13, 2026. Pending selection decisions, projects are expected to start in June 2026. Teams should build internal timelines now for scoping, partner commitments, budgeting, and data plans to avoid last-minute bottlenecks and improve proposal quality and execution readiness.

What types of activities can the grants support?

Projects can include inclusive recruitment practices, manager and worker training, reporting and case management improvements, and evaluation frameworks. Tools that prevent and address harassment and violence are in scope. Efforts should show measurable gains for federally regulated employers and align with workplace diversity funding goals.

How should investors interpret this announcement?

Expect increased 2026 demand for DEI consulting, harassment prevention solutions, and HR technology serving federally regulated employers. Monitor grant awards and contract announcements for timing and scale. The Government of Canada DEI funds could channel budget toward vendors that demonstrate measurable results, compliance gains, and scalable delivery.

Law and Government

January 6: Canada Unveils $16.5M DEI Grants for Regulated Firms

ByDanny Kontos January 6, 2026January 6, 2026

The Government of Canada DEI funds will direct C$16.5 million to projects that build inclusion and reduce harassment in federally regulated private workplaces. Ottawa will distribute grants through WORBE and the Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Fund. Proposals are due February 13, 2026, with projects expected to begin in June 2026, pending selections. For Canadian investors and large employers, this move can shape ESG priorities, compliance roadmaps, and vendor demand tied to workplace diversity funding over the 2026 cycle.