A policy submission to the Government of Alberta on behalf of the Alberta Chamber of Commerce
Issue
Alberta is the one of only two provinces that do not have accessibility legislation. Supporting the advocacy of accessibility legislation ensures that the Alberta government leads by example by improving accessibility within government programs, services, and infrastructure. By doing so, the government can reduce barriers for entrepreneurs with disabilities, making it easier for them to access government funding, support programs, and procurement opportunities. It also can result in fostering a more inclusive economy, attracting skilled workers and ensuring businesses can tap into a larger, more diverse talent pool.
A more accessible government benefits businesses by improving workforce participation and increasing consumer spending. Studies have shown that inclusive policies contribute to GDP growth, and Alberta has an opportunity to harness these economic benefits, ensuring the province remains competitive and welcoming for all.
Background
While recent announcements by the government are welcome, further support is needed. An Accessibility Act would establish a framework for identifying, removing, and preventing barriers within areas under provincial jurisdiction. By ensuring accessibility in government services and public spaces, Alberta can become a more inclusive place to live and work, attract top talent, develop a strong workforce and support business owners with disabilities. This benefits businesses, workers, and communities across Alberta, while growing the economy.
Why this matters for Alberta’s business community:
- Supporting Alberta business owners with disabilities: Improving government accessibility ensures equal access to programs and services, reducing administrative barriers for entrepreneurs with disabilities. Stats Canada reports that two out of 100 businesses are owned by a person with disabilities. In Alberta, this figure is higher with approximately four out of 100 businesses owned by a person with a disability. Ensuring all business have access to the resources they need to grow and succeed is critical to Alberta’s overall success and enhancing productivity.
- Expanded talent pool: Scotiabank estimates that if Canada fully leveraged its untapped labour market and closed the wage gap between workers with and without disabilities, it could generate $60 billion in income effects. This is especially relevant given that the latest survey from the Alberta Chamber of Commerce found that over one-quarter of employers experiencing a staff shortage reported significant impacts on production and sales. Addressing these labour shortages could include tapping into the underutilized potential of workers with disabilities.
- Increased consumer spending: The Conference Board of Canada estimates an increase in labour income would raise personal disposable income by $10.6 billion, driving a $10-billion boost in consumer spending Canada-wide. As of 2021 persons living with a disability in Alberta contributed $49.7 billion to Alberta’s GDP or approximately 13 per cent. A more inclusive workforce means more labour income and inherently increases consumer spending. This directly impacts economic growth, boosts demand for goods and services and fuels economic growth for businesses and Albertans.
- Enhanced talent attraction and retention: A more inclusive province makes Alberta a more attractive place for skilled workers, including those with disabilities and those who have family members with accessibility needs. Embracing inclusivity helps Alberta stay aligned with broader national and global trends, also making the province more attractive to investors, businesses, and skilled workers from across Canada.
The Alberta Chamber of Commerce recommends the Government of Alberta:
The Alberta Chamber of Commerce urges the Government of Alberta to table an Accessibility Act to create a more inclusive province. The Act should focus on improving accessibility within government programs, services, and infrastructure, with clear and measurable outcomes to assess progress.
We ask that the government prioritize:
- Data-Driven Policy: The Government of Alberta should commission a province-specific study on the economic impact of accessibility and full inclusion of people with disabilities. National studies highlight the benefits of inclusive policies on workforce participation, GDP growth, and consumer spending, but Alberta-specific data is needed to inform targeted policy decisions and support economic growth.
- Government Leadership: The Alberta government must lead by example by embedding accessibility within its own policies, programs, and services. By investing in accessible infrastructure and services, the government can boost economic activity and improve the well-being of their citizens.
- Workforce Development: Ensuring that government funding includes spaces for students with disabilities in education and training programs would help develop a much-needed workforce.
- Measurable Impact: The government should establish clear metrics and transparent reporting mechanisms to track accessibility improvements and ensure effectiveness.
- Enabling Accessibility: Establishing a business accessibility grant or support program would provide funding to businesses that want to improve accessibility for patrons and their workforce. This should include construction and communication technology.
