Jonathan Marriott: Your 2025 Reach Forum Community Impact Award Winner
The Reach Forum Community Impact Award is given to an individual or organization who has contributed greatly to the Disabled-Owned business community. This award recognizes those hard-working people and teams who support entrepreneurs with disabilities, so it is not a requirement for this individual or organization to be a person with a disability / Disabled-Owned.
Jonathan Marriott.
2025 Community Impact Award.
Jonathan Marriott is the Director of Partnerships at AccessNow, leading initiatives that enhance accessibility in both natural and built environments. His work spans accessible transportation, inclusive infrastructure, and the development of accessibility standards and guidelines, ensuring that accessibility is embedded into policies, spaces, and experiences. Jonathan takes a holistic, community-driven approach, working alongside organizations to create meaningful and lasting change.
Jonathan has lived perspective of neurodivergence, and his work is driven by the belief that accessibility is not just about compliance, it’s about creating inclusive experiences that empower people to navigate the world with confidence.
What is your personal story in the world of support and advocacy for Disabled-Owned businesses and Canadians with Disabilities?
My advocacy is grounded in my lived perspective of neurodivergence. I know firsthand that many systems aren’t built with diversity in mind. Too often, they overlook, oversimplify, or exclude the very people they’re meant to support. That perspective shapes the way I approach my work, with empathy, urgency, and a commitment to inclusion that goes beyond checklists.
In my role as Director of Partnerships at AccessNow, I help lead national and international collaborations focused on accessibility and economic inclusion. We amplify community voices, increase visibility for Disabled-Owned businesses, and use technology to share real- world accessibility insights. Our goal is to shift the conversation from compliance to impact, from charity to equity.
I also serve as Vice Chair of the Accessible Travel Standards Committee with Accessible Standards Canada, where I advocate for more inclusive infrastructure and policy, always centring lived experience. Whether I’m supporting a business, advising a partner, or helping lead community-based initiatives, I carry with me a strong belief that accessibility is not only about removing barriers, it’s about making space for everyone to lead and contribute.
How have you and your organization positively impacted the Canadian Disabled-Owned business community, and persons with disabilities in Canada?
Through AccessNow, we help people share and access real-world accessibility information about businesses and public spaces across Canada. This empowers people with disabilities to make informed choices and encourages businesses to become more inclusive.
We highlight and support inclusive businesses through our community events, like MapMissions, which bring people together to explore neighbourhoods and assess accessibility. These events create visibility for accessible spaces and build stronger connections within the community.
I also work closely with partners in government and industry to shape more inclusive policies and programs. Whether supporting equitable procurement, inclusive hiring, or amplifying lived experience, our focus is always on removing barriers and creating real opportunities for leadership and growth.
How does providing support services dedicated to persons with disabilities and Disabled-Owned businesses create value for Canada?
Providing support to Disabled-Owned businesses and services for people with disabilities strengthens Canada’s economy and communities because we know we are richer when we include all of our community. These businesses often lead with innovation and accessibility, bringing solutions that meet a wide range of needs and benefit everyone.
Support services help reduce barriers, increase workforce participation, and create more inclusive public spaces. This results in stronger local economies and a society where more people can fully take part in everyday life.
It is not just about equity. It is about recognizing the value of lived experience and making sure that everyone has a real chance to contribute, grow, and succeed.
Reach is honoured to recognize Jonathan and they've accomplished even more! Learn about their achievements and visit their website with the link below!
Professional Memberships and Committees
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Neurodiversity & Mental Health Community Leader, North America – Open Inclusion (2021 – present)
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Technical Subcommittee Member, CSA Group – B652 Built Environment Standard
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Founding Member, Global Accessibility and Inclusion Leadership Summit (Israel)
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Professional Member, International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP)
Advisory and Committee Roles
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Neurodiversity & Mental Health Community Leader, North America – Open Inclusion (2021 – present)
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Technical Subcommittee Member, CSA Group – B652 Built Environment Standard
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Founding Member, Global Accessibility and Inclusion Leadership Summit (Israel)
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Professional Member, International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP)
Community Engagement and Volunteering
- Vision Mate Volunteer, Canadian National Institute for the Blind (2023)
Reach: The National Forum for Disabled Entrepreneurship celebrates Canadian Disabled-Owned businesses like LearnAbility every year. Lear more about the Forum’s speakers, award winners, and award nominees when you visit the official page here.
