Why BC Organizations are Prioritizing Accessibility in 2026
- Lys Glassford
- Jan 15
- 2 min read
If you’ve been following the news in British Columbia lately, you’ve likely heard about the Accessible British Columbia Act.
There is a lot of noise out there, and I want to clear something up immediately: If you are a private business owner or a small non-profit, you aren't currently under a direct legal mandate to have a formal accessibility plan. That requirement currently sits with "prescribed authorities" (i.e., government ministries, hospitals, school boards, and municipalities).
So, why are so many private organizations calling me to audit their websites?
Because while the law hasn’t reached the private sector yet, the market has. We are seeing a massive ripple effect where accessibility is becoming a prerequisite for doing business in BC.
Even without a direct law, accessibility has become a major gatekeeper for BC businesses in 2026 for three very practical reasons:
1. The Grant Funding Shift
If your non-profit or small business relies on provincial or federal grants, you’ve likely noticed the new fine print. Funding bodies are increasingly asking for proof of inclusive practices. If your website or digital program isn't WCAG 2.1 compliant, you’re putting your funding at risk. They want to ensure their money serves all British Columbians, not just some of them.
2. The Government Vendor List
Large public entities (the ones that are mandated by the Act) are now auditing their supply chains. If you provide services to a school board, a library, or a crown corporation, they may soon require your digital tools and documents to be accessible to remain compliant.
3. The Federal Horizon
The Accessible Canada Act is moving steadily toward its goal of a barrier-free Canada by 2040. For any business that crosses provincial lines or falls under federal eyes, like transportation or logistics, the clock is already ticking.
As someone who loves Lean Six Sigma and who lives with an invisible disability, I look at accessibility differently than most. I don't see it as a compliance chore. I see it as the removal of friction.
Every time a user with a visual impairment or a neurodivergent entrepreneur can’t navigate your site, that is a lost lead. That is "waste" in your business process. By following WCAG 2.2 standards, you aren't just being "nice"; you are optimizing your digital infrastructure for the widest possible audience.
How to Stay Ahead of the Curve
You don’t need to panic, but you should be proactive.
Stop Guessing: Get a professional audit to see where your digital "bottlenecks" are.
Think Inclusive by Design: Next time you update your website or launch a program, build it with accessibility in mind from Day 1. It’s significantly cheaper than retrofitting it later.
Watch the Legislation: The list of "prescribed authorities" is likely to grow. Being ready now means you won't be scrambling when the requirements eventually shift toward your sector.
Accessibility is about more than just a checklist; it’s about ensuring your mission is accessible to everyone. Whether you're looking to secure your next grant or just want to provide a better experience for your clients, let's make sure your digital presence is actually open for business. If you're looking for an online accessibility audit lets chat!
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