The value of accessible travel
Creating an inclusive destination benefits everyone. Building capacity for accessibility in tourism not only fosters inclusivity but also makes good business sense by expanding the customer base, enhancing brand reputation, and meeting the growing demand for accessible travel options.
“According to a recent report from MMGY Global, “Portrait of Travelers with Disabilities: Mobility and Accessibility,” approximately 12.5 million people with disabilities traveled in 2018-19. Factoring in the growth of baby boomers expected to acquire a disability as they age, MMGY estimates that number to nearly triple to 33.4 million by 2028. MMGY also found that these travelers take leisure trips at the same frequency as those without mobility issues (State of accessible travel: Travel Weekly, 2022). The spending from this customer base is projected to grow globally from $81bn in 2025 to $135bn by 2032 (Real Time Data Stats, 2025).
Ottawa has developed a reputation for hosting inclusive events which draw visitors of all abilities to the community. Ottawa has hosted or is committed to host the following events:
- 2019 YONEX Canada Para-Badminton International
- 2024 Canadian Boccia Championship
- 2025 Special Olympics Ontario School Championships
- 2026 World Wheelchair Basketball Championships
Program overview
In early 2025, Ottawa Tourism launched its first member capacity building program, focusing on accessibility. This program is designed for any industry member committed to improving accessibility in their business, no matter their current level of accessibility awareness and infrastructure. Twenty-six member businesses participated in the first cohort and ten members received Tourism Accessibility Funding to support accessibility projects.
Ottawa Tourism’s Capacity Building Program, Addressing Accessibility, reflects the tourism community's shared commitment to supporting travellers facing barriers. The program ensures businesses work towards more inclusive experiences and provide visitors with clear, up-to-date information on accessibility features, empowering them to make informed travel decisions within Ottawa. The cohort approach allows members to learn from one another and leverage the strengths of the group to build capacity together. Member Let’s Go Cargo! summarizes, “Ottawa Tourism played a significant role in meeting our goal of providing more accessible options to get around by bike! They assisted us with website improvements to provide customers with accurate information, as well as a grant to purchase an e-cargo bike with a door, which facilitates easier access for passengers. Thanks for helping make Ottawa more accessible!”
The program’s current focus is on making tourism businesses and experiences more wheelchair accessible in preparation for the upcoming World Wheelchair Basketball Championships (September 2026).
The second training cohort will start in January 2026. Learn more about the program and register your interest to participate below.
Eligibility
This program is open to Ottawa Tourism members that meet the following criteria:
- are industry members of Ottawa Tourism
- are committed to building capacity through continuous improvement
Program benefits
As participating members build capacity through the program, they will become eligible for additional benefits and opportunities through Ottawa Tourism’s sales and marketing reach.
- Exposure on Ottawa Tourism website as a provider of accessibility information on your member listing
- Eligible for inclusion through itineraries, blogs, media and influencer exposure, and other marketing content
- Priority access to Tourism Accessibility Funding, where available and eligible
- Free access to training and resources,
- Educational events and peer-to-peer networking
- Inclusion in promotional materials for World Wheelchair Basketball Championship
- Access to business events, major events and travel trade leads that specify accessibility requirements
The commitment
Eligible businesses will be asked to dedicate an accessibility champion to participate in the program. The program is designed to be self-paced, allowing members the flexibility to work at their own speed, however, Ottawa Tourism will work alongside the cohort to offer opportunities for peer-to-peer learning and resources that can be leveraged to make considerable strides within a six month period; in time to welcome the 2026 IWBF World Wheelchair Basketball Championship. The training will be delivered in person and online and will only require a time commitment of 1-2 hours per month. The program is offered in English only.
Preliminary program plan
- Cohort Kick-off: Meet the group, share your journey, and learn how to get started.
- Update your Member Profile: Work with Ottawa Tourism to ensure your profile includes up-to-date information.
- Site Visit with Accessibility Expert: Observe wheelchair user barriers firsthand by shadowing a site visit and welcome an accessibility expert to your business to gain first hand insights.
- Create Action Plan: Develop a plan to improve wheelchair accommodation through business process and training adjustments.
- Tourism Accessibility Fund: Apply for tourism accessibility funding to support an accessibility enhancement (50% contribution required; some conditions apply).
- Complete Rick Hansen Training: Participate in training sponsored by Ottawa Tourism.
- Review Website Accessibility Content: Assess your business website and work together to incorporate more comprehensive useful accessibility information.
- Experience Development: Learn how to create offerings and experiences tailored to travelers with disabilities that will help you connect with this audience.
