Accessibility for Wheelchair Customers – Funding Up to €5,000

Accessibility (Barrierefreiheit) in Shops

Measures:

• Step-free entrance → ramps or automatic doors

• Accessible toilet → 1.5 m turning space, grab bars, low toilet

• Wide aisles → at least 1.20 m for wheelchair or rollator

• Comfortable waiting area → fixed chairs, no visual disturbance

• Clear signage / Braille signs → support for visually impaired

• Communication for hearing impaired → clear counters or sound systems

Support Programs:

1. KfW Accessibility Program (455-B, currently paused) → up to €6,250 funding

2. Barrier-free Businesses (Integrationsamt/Inclusion funding) → €2,000–5,000 depending on state

3. State programs (NRW, Bavaria, Hamburg) → funding for ramps, toilet adaptation, wider doors/aisles

4. Aktion Mensch projects → up to 100% cost coverage, detailed application required

Required Documents:

• Project description (before/after, photos/plans)

• Cost estimate (craftsman/company)

• Documentation of current state (photos)

• Proof of business registration (trade license or register extract)

• Financial data (small businesses <10 employees)

Where to apply:

• Local IHK or HWK

• Integrationsamt or municipal social office

• Online: www.kfw.de, www.aktion-mensch.de, state ministries of labor/social affairs