OCAD University is proud to launch the Inclusive Design Institute (IDI), a generative hub of innovative applied research that addresses the timely and critical challenge of digital inclusion for the full range of human diversity. With eight postsecondary partner institutions and more than 100 multi-sector collaborators, this regional centre of expertise will prepare Ontario to respond to the increased demand worldwide for inclusive digital systems and practices, a demand that is intensified by an aging population and the adoption of accessibility legislation by all major trading partners. Supported by both the Canada Foundation for Innovation and the Ontario Ministry for Economic Development and Innovation, the IDI will help train highly qualified personnel to fuel ongoing innovation in inclusive design and enable Ontario to take a leadership role globally.
Inclusion and diversity are not only values or rights to be protected, but also catalysts for new ideas, design principles that lead to better design, business strategies that make good business sense and potential economic drivers with ubiquitous social benefits. Inclusion and diversity are Ontario's richest untapped resources. Research at the IDI will help Ontario sustain and develop this resource and foster the inherent potential to create a vibrant, productive generator of innovative, inclusively designed information and communication systems and services.
Please join us for the official launch ceremony:
When: May 24th, Noon to 2pm
Where: 49 McCaul St., Toronto, Ont.