Illustrations of Amit Aggarwal

Amit Aggarwal

Founder and Consultant

Amit Aggarwal, Principal Consultant of Accessibility Innovations, possesses an Executive MBA and a wealth of IT certifications, including the Certified Professional in Web Accessibility (CPWA) from the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP). With over 20 years of experience in project delivery and a decade dedicated to leading transformative initiatives, Amit has orchestrated change across various sectors. He is adept at training both non-technical (focusing on the what, why, and who) and technical (concentrating on the how-to) teams. His strategic efforts have led to the development of successful accessibility strategies for all three levels of government, demonstrating his leadership in guiding organizations towards comprehensive accessibility compliance management.

In his own words, “Our organization is steadfast in its core principles of empathy, inclusivity, and expert guidance, committed to creating environments accessible to all, especially those with special needs. These principles are not merely guidelines but are the bedrock of our mission in every project.”

Amit Aggarwal’s Blog's

In today's rapidly evolving urban landscape, the integration of accessible features into new and modern buildings has become a standard practice. However, there is often a significant gap in this progressive approach when it comes to our cherished heritage buildings. These historical structures, rich with cultural and architectural significance, frequently lag in accessibility. As we strive for a more inclusive society, it is crucial to explore and implement innovative solutions that make these historic buildings accessible to everyone. 
Accessibility is fast becoming one of the core service pillars of government organizations and businesses. Now more than ever, organizations work to ensure that their spaces serve people with disabilities respectfully and comfortably. This shift is due to the advocacy of various disability groups, growing social consciousness, and accessibility laws such as the ADA, AODA, and ACA. Embarking on the accessibility journey can be daunting for beginners, but having a prudent accessibility plan is the key.
Disability affects many Canadians. Over 22% currently have a disability and this figure increases to 38% for those over 65. With 1.85 million Ontarians affected, the prevalence of disability is expected to grow from one in six today to one in five in the next 20 years. These numbers will have an increasing influence on many Canadians as they consider the accessibility of businesses and services, often influenced by family members or friends with disabilities.
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) mandates that organizations in Ontario create accessible environments for all individuals, regardless of their physical and mental capabilities. Understanding the legal obligations under AODA is crucial for businesses, non-profits, and public sector organizations. Equally important is being aware of the consequences of non-compliance, which can include financial penalties. This blog outlines these obligations and the potential penalties that organizations could face if they fail to adhere to the standards set by AODA.
For many organizations, particularly small businesses and non-profits, the costs associated with becoming compliant with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) can seem daunting. However, a variety of funding opportunities and resources are available to help ease this burden. This blog outlines key sources of financial support and guidance that can assist organizations in meeting AODA standards.
Navigating the complexities of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) can be daunting for small business owners. However, compliance is not only a legal obligation but also a step towards creating a more inclusive environment for customers and employees alike. This guide provides practical insights and steps for small businesses to understand and implement AODA standards effectively.