From: Helen Tewolde, Director, Access Strategy & Partnerships Office
Date: April 1, 2026
Re: Call for Proposals — Access Programs University Fund (PDAD&C #30)
The Access Programs University Fund (APUF) is calling for proposals for the 2026-27 academic year. APUF is a Provostial fund, launched in 2019, that supports access to post-secondary education initiatives at the University of Toronto.
Fund Overview
The University of Toronto has a long-standing commitment to outreach and access – currently there are over 120 access and outreach programs across the institution. The University is committed to ensuring that students from communities that are underrepresented in universities see and experience U of T as a place where they belong and thrive. The purpose of this fund is to provide financial resources to help U of T units develop new initiatives and enhance existing programs dedicated to providing opportunities and support for learners who, without intervention, would not access or thrive in post-secondary education.
*NEW* Indigenous Access Stream
In 2026, ASPO introduced the Indigenous Access Stream (IAS), an additional APUF stream reflecting its thematic focus on Access to Post-secondary Education for Indigenous Learners.
Application Process
The APUF application process includes two steps:
- Consult with the Access Strategy & Partnerships Office (ASPO) to discuss your proposal.
- Use the 2026 APUF Consultation Bookings link to arrange a consultation between March 30 – April 20, 2026.
- Submit the full application package, if invited to apply.
- Deadline: May 20, 2026.
The application process is conducted entirely online using the provided submissions forms. No hard copy or email submissions will be accepted.
For further inquiries please contact: Access Strategy & Partnerships Office (ASPO) [access@utoronto.ca]