Panel: Breaking Barriers: Accessibility as a Growth Strategy for Small Business

Thursday, May 8, 2025
1:00 PM 3:00 PM

100 Larkin Street San Francisco, CA, 94102 United States (map)

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The San Francisco Disability Business Alliance (SFDBA) and accessibility advocates will discuss how inclusive practices contribute to small business success. With 1 in 4 individuals in the U.S. living with a disability, accessibility is more than compliance—it’s a growth strategy. Panelists will share how inclusive physical spaces and digital products can expand customer reach, increase revenue and demonstrate the return on investment of accessibility. The discussion will also cover legal requirements and practical steps for integrating accessibility into daily operations.

Michael Hingson is NY Times best-selling author of Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, and the Triumph of Trust. Blind since birth and a survivor of the 9/11 attacks, Hingson delivers keynote speeches globally and hosts the Unstoppable Mindset Podcast.

Kiran Kaja is a principal product manager at Amazon - Worldwide Stores Accessibility, a speaker and Disability Advocate. Kaja is passionate about leveraging AI-based technologies to solve long-standing accessibility and inclusion challenges and enhance independence for people with disabilities.

Katy Tang is a seasoned leader supporting small businesses through public policy, community engagement, and economic development. As a former San Francisco District Supervisor and current Executive Director of the Office of Small Business, she leads initiatives that remove barriers and streamline resources for local entrepreneurs.

Eli Gelardin has over 21 years of experience in disability rights, advancing accessibility, equity and inclusion. In 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom appointed him to the California State Rehabilitation Council. Gelardin now serves as Director of the Mayor's Office on Disability.

Joshua Klipp is an attorney, disability access advocate and the Principal, Founder & Certified Access Specialist (CASp) of Made Welcome. Made Welcome offers accessibility consulting and solutions for workplaces, local governments and event planners.

Andre Le Mont Wilson (moderator) is the Small Business Program Manager at Ability Now. Through this role, Wilson manages, coordinates and assists half a dozen small businesses operated and owned by entrepreneurs with disabilities.

The San Francisco Disability Business Alliance (SFDBA) helps individuals with disabilities achieve economic self-sufficiency through small business ownership and entrepreneurship. SFDBA offers business development support, guides system navigation and advocates for policies that create equal opportunities, ensuring the Bay Area benefits from the diversity, expertise and innovation of entrepreneurs with disabilities.