Crowdsourcing App founded by MDM Alumna launches COVID-19 initiative
Originally published on accessnow.com (external link)
AccessNow, an award-winning digital platform crowdsourcing information on the accessibility of places, introduced an initiative that identifies, validates and promotes businesses that are accessible from home. Recognizing that people may not be able to leave their homes due to COVID-19, this new service, called “Access From Home,” helps people find businesses that are offering goods and services to people at home.
“Accessibility is now something we are all experiencing firsthand and not just something people with disabilities need. Our focus with Access From Home is to connect people with accessible businesses, like we always have, while creating awareness about the importance of inclusive business practices. With the outbreak of COVID-19, we have the opportunity for a wake up call: we all benefit from accessibility."
Using the “Access From Home” badge on the AccessNow web app, users will be able to search for and determine which businesses offer services that can be accessed from home online. Whether it be food delivery, supplies, virtual experiences, online banking, or more, people with or without disability can find and access the support they need during this difficult time.
In Canada, over half of all businesses see a decline of 20% or more in revenue while just under two-thirds of businesses are highly impacted by lower demand. Over two-fifths (45.4%) of businesses reported having added new ways to interact with or sell to customers, while nearly two-fifths (38.1%) of businesses reported having increased the use of virtual connections internally. Verifying these businesses that provide access from home is not only good for business but highlights accessibility and inclusion, benefiting everyone in the long run.
“We are thrilled to bring this new service to the community—to the world,” shared Ziv. “We’ve started with a basic list, but our work here has just begun. Our goal is to build a comprehensive guide: Groceries, Healthcare, Entertainment, Education and much more.” The AccessNow team continues to build an index, but everyone is invited and encouraged to contribute. “We want the community to be a part of the solution.”
AccessNow is grateful to the Government of Canada and CIBC for their commitment as Supporting Partners of this important initiative.