Web Accessibility Requirements for Canadian Nonprofits
Creating an inclusive digital experience is essential for Canadian nonprofits—not only to comply with accessibility laws like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), but also to fulfill your mission of serving the public equitably. Accessibility isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a reflection of your organization’s values, integrity, and commitment to every individual you support.
Below, we break down what accessibility means for your nonprofit, how to meet AODA and WCAG 2.0 Level AA standards, and how Noble Pixels can help you make it happen—step by step.
What Are the Web Accessibility Requirements for Canadian Nonprofits?
Under AODA, nonprofits with 50 or more employees and all public-sector organizations in Ontario are legally required to make their websites accessible. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA serve as the baseline standard you must meet.
These guidelines are structured around four core principles: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (POUR). Here’s what that means in practice:
Key WCAG 2.0 Level AA Requirements:
- Text alternatives for all images and non-text content
- Semantic HTML structure using proper heading hierarchy
- Full keyboard navigation for all functions
- Captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions for videos
- Sufficient color contrast between text and background
- Scalable text up to 200% without breaking layout
- Limit flashing content to prevent seizures
- Descriptive error messages in forms and interactive elements
Why Accessibility Matters for Nonprofits
Beyond compliance, accessibility improves how your message is received by everyone who interacts with your organization.
Tangible Benefits:
- Reach more Canadians, including 1 in 5 living with a disability
- Showcase leadership in inclusion and equity
- Improve user experience for everyone, not just those with disabilities
- Reduce legal risk and regulatory issues
“The power of the Web is in its universality. Access by everyone regardless of disability is an essential aspect.”
— Tim Berners-Lee, W3C Director
How We Help Nonprofits Become AODA Compliant
At Noble Pixels, we’ve partnered with Canadian nonprofits to transform their digital presence with accessibility at the core. Our process is collaborative, practical, and results-driven.
Step 1: Accessibility Audit
We identify accessibility gaps using a mix of automated tools and expert manual testing.
Step 2: Accessibility Roadmap
We provide a prioritized implementation plan tailored to your resources and goals.
Step 3: Design & Development Updates
From contrast fixes to keyboard navigation, we make or support the required changes.
Step 4: Assistive Technology Testing
We verify usability with screen readers and real-world users.
Step 5: Ongoing Support & Feedback
We help you publish an accessibility statement and gather feedback from users with disabilities.
Real Impact: Case Study
Accessibility Upgrade for a Canadian Mental Health Nonprofit
A provincial mental health nonprofit partnered with us to address major accessibility gaps. Their site was inaccessible to screen readers and lacked video captions.
- Achieved full WCAG 2.0 Level AA compliance
- Increased engagement from users with assistive tech by 27%
- Received positive feedback from visually impaired donors and visitors
Take the First Step Toward a Fully Accessible Website
Making your website AODA compliant is more than a legal checkbox—it’s a mission-critical upgrade that empowers all your users. Whether you’re starting fresh or improving an existing site, we’ll walk with you every step of the way.
Schedule Your Free Accessibility ConsultationAccessibility Resources for Canadian Nonprofits
