As seen in B2B Vault Podcast

Why Website Accessibility is a Business Imperative – Insights from Josh Basil of AccessiBe 

Introduction 

In this episode of B2B Vault: The Biz-to-Biz Podcast, we sit down with Josh Basil, Community Relations Manager at AccessiBe, to talk about one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of doing business online: website accessibility

Josh’s story is inspiring. At just 18, a beach accident left him a C4–C5 quadriplegic. Since then, he’s graduated magna cum laude from law school, practiced as an attorney, and become a leading voice for digital inclusion. His mission is simple but powerful: make the web usable for everyone. 

 

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The Business Case for Accessibility 

Josh reveals a striking statistic: less than 2% of websites currently meet accessibility guidelines. This isn’t just a compliance issue, it’s a missed business opportunity

Why it matters: 

  • ADA Compliance: Websites are considered “places of public accommodation” under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and must follow WCAG 2.1 AA standards. 
  • Customer Retention: 70% of disabled users leave inaccessible websites and never return. 
  • Risk Reduction: Avoid lawsuits from “drive-by” attorneys targeting non-compliant businesses. 

Industries most impacted include e-commerce, hospitality, restaurants, and professional services

 

Accessibility Is an Ongoing Journey 

Accessibility is not a “set it and forget it” project. 
Your site will evolve—new products, blog posts, and updates are constantly added. Each change must maintain compliance. 

“Accessibility is like security,” Josh explains. “It has to be baked into your business model.” 

 

AI-Powered Solutions with AccessiBe 

Josh details how AccessiBe’s tools help businesses close the accessibility gap: 

  • Access Widget – An AI tool that scans your site every 24 hours and applies real-time adjustments. 
  • Access Flow – A developer tool for manual remediation. 
  • Customizable User Profiles – Visitors can adjust site settings for epilepsy, vision impairments, motor disabilities, and more. 

Installation can take less than 20 minutes on WordPress or Shopify

 

Global Compliance Benefits 

Accessibility isn’t just a U.S. concern. 
The European Accessibility Act (EAA), in effect since June 2025, requires compliance for businesses selling into the EU. Fortunately, WCAG standards are recognized worldwide, meaning compliance in the U.S. also helps internationally. 

 

Steps to Get Started 

Josh’s action plan for businesses: 

  1. Scan Your Site – Get a free audit at AccessiBe.com. 
  1. Remediate Issues – Use AI tools, hire experts, or both. 
  1. Make Accessibility Part of Operations – Integrate it into ongoing website updates. 
  1. Promote Your Efforts – Share your commitment to inclusion with your customers. 

 

Key Takeaway 

Accessibility isn’t just about avoiding lawsuits—it’s about opening your doors to more customers, improving user experience, and building brand loyalty

The disability community is one of the most brand-loyal markets. Serve them well, and they’ll return—and bring their friends and family. 

 

Listen to the full episode:

• Biz to Biz Podcast on YouTube
• Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform
• Want to be a guest? Visit b2bvault.info

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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

What is website accessibility?

It’s the practice of making your website usable by everyone, including people with disabilities. 

Why is accessibility important for my business?

It improves customer experience, meets legal requirements, and reduces the risk of lawsuits.

What laws apply in the U.S.?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires accessible websites, following WCAG standards. 


What are WCAG standards?

      The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are internationally recognized rules for creating accessible web content. 


      How can AI help with accessibility?

      AI tools like Access Widget scan and fix accessibility issues automatically, saving time and cost.