Accessible Spaces Project

More Information

• Why Accessibility Matters

  More than one in four Canadians (27%) lives with a disability. Accessibility is not only about inclusion, it also makes good business sense.

  Accessible businesses help create a community where everyone feels welcome. Small changes can make a meaningful difference for:

  • Older adults
  • People living with disabilities (physical, sensory, cognitive, communication or mental health)
  • Families with strollers
  • Visitors with temporary injuries or mobility challenges
  • Residents and tourists exploring the community

  Improving accessibility also supports:

  • A stronger local economy
  • Inclusive customer experiences
  • Customer loyalty and repeat visits
  • A welcoming destination for visitors

  Canada’s Accessible Canada Act (ACA) aims to make Canada barrier-free by 2040 by identifying, removing and preventing barriers that limit participation in everyday life.

• What Accessibility Can Look Like

  Accessibility can take many forms and does not require perfection or major renovations. Examples include:

  • Step-free entrances or ramps
  • Clear, easy-to-read signage with good contrast
  • Spacious, easy-to-navigate layouts
  • Accessible websites and online booking tools
  • Inclusive, welcoming customer service

How Does the Project Benefit your Business

• Free Accessibility Walk-Through & Practical Recommendations

  A trained volunteer will visit your business to complete a friendly, non-invasive accessibility walk-through. The visit focuses on how customers experience your space, from entry to service, and is designed to be supportive and no-pressure.

  • The walk-through reflects a typical customer experience
  • No inspections, audits or formal interviews are conducted
  • Business owners or managers are not required to accompany the volunteer, but are welcome to share context or ask questions

  The walk-through typically takes 45–60 minutes and does not disrupt normal operations. After the visit, businesses receive a clear summary report that includes:

  • Observations from the walk-through
  • Easy-to-implement suggestions
  • Ideas to enhance accessibility, customer service and overall experience

  There is no obligation to implement recommendations. Businesses choose what changes to make and when.

• How to Make Your Business More Accessible

  Accessibility is a journey. Most businesses start small and improve over time. Helpful ways to get started include:

  1. Understand the customer experience

  Consider how customers enter, move through and use your space, both in person and online.

  2. See accessibility as an opportunity

  Accessible spaces attract more customers and create better experiences for everyone.

  3. Recognize accessibility influences where people spend money

  Customers choose businesses where they feel comfortable and included.

  4. Start small and build steadily

  Simple changes like clearer signage, improved layout or staff awareness can have a big impact.

  5. Invest in training and resources

  Building knowledge helps staff confidently support customers of all abilities.

• How the Process Works

  The Accessible Spaces Project follows a clear, respectful process designed to minimize disruption and provide practical value.

  1. Invite & Book

  The business receives an invitation to participate and schedules an Accessibility Walk-Through at a convenient time.

  2. Confirm Expectations

  Before the visit, the business is informed that the walk-through includes:

  • An independent walk-through of the space
  • No disruption to staff or customers
  • Public areas only
  • An advisory, educational approach (not enforcement)

  3. Independent Walk-Through

  The reviewer visits the business and moves through the space as a typical customer would, observing accessibility across key areas such as entry, navigation, service areas and overall experience.

  4. Post-Visit Check-In

  Following the walk-through, the reviewer has a brief check-in with the owner or manager (if available) to:

  • Ask clarifying questions
  • Understand any constraints
  • Capture feedback or context from the business
  • Participation in this conversation is optional

  5. Summary & Recommendations

  After the visit, the business receives a short follow-up summary that includes:

  • What’s working well
  • Suggested improvements
  • Key barriers with practical options to consider

  6. Optional Support

  Businesses may choose to access optional follow-up support, including:

  • Additional resources
  • Guidance on next steps
  • Connections to tools or information that may support improvements

Ready to Participate?

Q & A

• Learn more

  Q. Is this an inspection or audit?

  A. No. This is a voluntary, educational service. It is not a regulatory inspection, audit or certification.

  Q. Do I need to be fully accessible to participate?

  A. No. Accessibility is a journey. Small improvements over time can make a meaningful difference.

  Q. Do I have to make changes?

  A. No. All recommendations are optional.

  Q. Do I need to renovate my space?

  A. Not necessarily. Many improvements are low- or no-cost, such as layout adjustments, signage or staff training.

  Q. Is accessibility only about physical disabilities?

  A. No. Accessibility also includes cognitive, sensory, communication and mental health considerations.

  Q. Can I promote my business as accessible?

  A. Yes. Being transparent about your accessibility features helps customers decide if your space meets their needs.