Access Innovators Network

Please note that registration is required at the external link by September 25th, noon to gain access to the BDC office. A QR code will be sent to you, which is required to enter the building.
Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/yBrbn5vDvr

Date and Time: September 26th, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: BDC office, 81 Bay Street, Toronto

Event Overview:
Come join us for the very first in-person event of the Access Innovators Network, where we’ll dive into the exciting journey of Digita11y Accessible and how we built A11Yn, a groundbreaking digital accessibility solution powered by Azure OpenAI.

Not only will you get a hands-on demo of how A11Yn is transforming the accessibility space, but you’ll also hear from our key partners who played pivotal roles in making this all happen. And yes—there will be pizza!

Why Should You Attend?

• Learn from Real-World Success: Discover how we built A11Yn using AI and the support of key partners like Microsoft for Startups, BDC, and more.
• Connect with Experts: Network with industry leaders and professionals from the tech and accessibility communities.
• Exclusive Demo: Get an inside look at how A11Yn can streamline accessibility efforts for businesses and organizations.
• Inspiration & Insight: Hear from entrepreneurs and innovators who have navigated the challenges of building accessible solutions.

Confirmed Panelists:

1. David Wachmann, FMVA (BDC)

• Senior Account Manager, Technology Industry at BDC. David will share how BDC’s financial support was essential in helping us bootstrap our startup.

2. Donna Heslin (IDEA Square One, City of Mississauga)

• Founder of IDEA Square One, Donna will talk about how their support has been instrumental in helping us scale and grow.

3. Varun Chandak (Access to Success)

• Founder of Access to Success and ATS Labs, Varun will share insights on how he’s supporting startups that focus on accessibility.

Agenda:

1. 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Pizza, Networking, and Refreshments

• Mingle with other attendees and grab some pizza while you network with entrepreneurs, developers, and accessibility advocates.

2. 6:30 PM - 6:50 PM: Live Demo of A11Yn

• Watch a demo of A11Yn’s powerful accessibility features, including AI-powered project creation, ticket management, and automated accessibility scans.
• Learn how Azure OpenAI has been key to making this platform possible.
• Q&A (10 minutes): Have questions? We’ve got answers!

3. 6:50 PM - 7:30 PM: Panel Discussion – "Building a Startup with Accessibility in Mind"

• Panelists: David Wachmann (BDC), Donna Heslin (IDEA Square One), and Varun Chandak (Access to Success).
• Each will share their perspective on supporting startups and helping accessibility-focused companies succeed.
• Q&A (10 minutes): Get direct insights from the experts.

4. 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Closing Remarks and Networking

• Final thoughts and a chance to continue the conversation with fellow attendees.

Important:
The QR code to access the event will be sent the day before.

Message from Our Host and Sponsor:
BDC is committed to fostering an accessible and welcoming environment for all. If you require an accommodation for this event, please contact us at [email protected].

Don’t forget to register by September 25th, noon at the external link to secure your spot and receive the QR code required for entry into the BDC office.
Register here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=ZP5Q2BMs0ESls_7btO3_vaonjJQWyDJIgSYMNIlCVspUNk9MTU1MRTZaUjhHSU1TRExCNFI0MjVEMy4u&route=shorturl.