Ever heard of the Curb Cut Effect? Those little ramps originally designed for wheelchair users turned out to help everyone, parents with pushchairs, cyclists, travellers with heavy suitcases, and many more. The same principle applies to your business: designing for accessibility and inclusion makes your brand better for everyone.

In this practical, fun workshop, SMEs will learn how simple inclusive design tweaks online (and offline!) can dramatically broaden their appeal, boost customer loyalty, and enhance overall brand experience.

Part 1: The Curb Cut Mindset (Why Accessibility Benefits Everyone)

• What exactly is the Curb Cut Effect, and why should SMEs care?
• Dispelling accessibility myths (it’s not as complex or expensive as you think!)
• The surprising market you’re missing - stats on spending power and lost opportunities

Part 2: Accessible by Design (Online & Digital)

• Quick accessibility wins for your website (colour contrast, readable text, alt-text)
• How simple accessibility tweaks significantly improve SEO and UX
• Accessible social media strategies everyone appreciates (hashtags, captions, image descriptions)
• Email newsletters and digital content: small changes that yield big results

Part 3: Offline Accessibility – Your Brand in the Real World

• Accessible brand experiences, why every customer interaction counts
• Ensuring physical spaces welcome everyone (layout, signage, entryways)
• Inclusive customer service & communication (small shifts, big impact)

Part 4: Inclusive Brand = Better Brand

• How inclusive branding and messaging expand your customer base
• Real-life success stories and practical examples
• Three easy-to-action ideas to start your brand’s inclusive journey immediately

Closing:

• Your action plan- 3 quick steps to implement tomorrow
• Useful tools, resources, and a takeaway accessibility checklist