INNoVA

Fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace entails more than just following the rules; it is about embracing diversity, promoting social responsibility, and creating an environment where all employees can thrive. Leading this charge in Canada is INNoVA, a consulting firm that helps organizations achieve workplace disability inclusion and accessibility.

INNoVA drives systemic change within businesses. Through its disability mentoring experiences (DMX) and customized strategies, it promotes employment for people with disabilities and those facing workplace barriers, fostering inviting and supportive workplaces for everyone.

“We connect talent to opportunity and vice versa,” says Meghan Kelly, VP of sales and operations at INNoVA. The firm’s services, which include accessibility consulting, employment strategies exchange and Advisor services, are characterized by highly empowering solutions that prioritize accessibility and flexibility. The services cater to individuals who seek on-demand self-assessment or self-serve modalities for workplace adjustments as deemed necessary. The firm assists business in creating a culture where employees are supported by focusing on what they require to accomplish their goals rather than labeling them based on these accommodations.

INNoVA’s accessibility consulting services bolster employee engagement and innovative practices through disability-inclusive procedures. It facilitates significant discovery sessions with clients, identifying their business needs and customizing solutions accordingly. The firm has an individualized consulting process that draws upon extensive industry knowledge, Canada’s labour market trends, and awareness of legislation and regulations. The firm’s expertise and ability to organically gather information from stakeholders allows it to make well-informed recommendations for best practices and their effective execution in fostering experiences like mentoring and training.

“INNoVA has made a conscious decision that not only will have the impact for systemic change on business, but will have a social impact on employment, for persons with disabilities, and others who experience barriers in the workplace,” adds Kelly.

The DMX solution revamps traditional mentoring setups by cultivating a shared learning experience between mentors and mentees. A dynamic knowledge exchange raises awareness, inclusion, and career opportunities for establishing cultures that promote innovation, collaboration, and increased employee engagement.

Besides its DMX and accessibility consulting services, INNoVA offers a unique feature for individuals to connect on the ESX platform called ‘talent 360’, which enables them to offer a personalized and comprehensive understanding of their uniqueness to organizations who are looking to attract top talent. For instance, this feature allows users to upload audio files that accurately pronounce their names.

INNoVA has made a conscious decision that not only will have the impact for systemic change on business, but will have a social impact on employment, for persons with disabilities, and others who experience barriers in the workplace

Catering primarily to medium- and larger-sized businesses across various sectors, INNoVA has observed growing responsiveness to prevailing accessibility and inclusion trends, especially among businesses influenced by federal and provincial legislations in Canada. By leveraging the expertise and insights of its highly skilled team, including workplace trends and relevant laws, INNoVA is able to develop solutions that complement one another. Using this knowledge, they can empower individuals and businesses, making it easier to implement significant changes in their respective organizations.

In response to the growing demand for disability confidence training, INNoVA assisted a client whose employee felt unsupported due to their disability. The firm developed a hybrid strategy that combined in-person and virtual training for the organization and the employee with accessibility features. Positive post-training survey results prompted a reevaluation of accessibility policies. The organization leveraged INNoVA’s guidance to enhance policies using gap analysis, accessibility consulting, and measurement technology. This journey highlights the client’s growth commitment, aided by the firm’s accessibility and inclusion expertise.

INNoVA’s mission is to guide organizations toward an inclusive and beneficial work culture for individuals with disabilities. Its evidence-based approach aims to generate meaningful organizational change and nurture an environment where all employees can thrive. By offering personalized mentoring experiences, the firm enables businesses and aspiring talents to access valuable mentorship. A pioneer in this field, the firm provides a platform for businesses to embrace accessibility and inclusion, creating a brighter and more equitable future for all employees.