#None #Accessibility Solutions #Edge Public #Word Wizards

Edge Public Expands Accessibility Solutions

In a significant move aimed at enhancing procurement processes for public sector organizations, Edge Public has announced a collaborative partnership with Word Wizards, Inc. This initiative is designed to facilitate access to comprehensive digital accessibility solutions through a series of cooperative contracts, making compliance with accessibility standards more manageable for public agencies.

A Collaborative Approach to Accessibility

Edge Public, a brand known for its cooperative purchasing contracts, has established itself as a cornerstone for public sector organizations looking for streamlined procurement paths. With the increasing emphasis on digital accessibility compliance due to evolving requirements from the ADA, Edge Public has embraced the need for scalable solutions. The partnership with Word Wizards, a well-established digital accessibility service provider, significantly broadens the resources available to public agencies, allowing them to meet their accessibility obligations efficiently and transparently.

Word Wizards, a certified woman-owned small business with over 25 years of experience, offers an impressive array of services including document remediation, accessible forms development, video captioning, and audio descriptions. Such services are essential for public entities striving to make their digital content inclusive for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

Streamlined Procurement Processes

The newly awarded contracts—AFI-2025117 and AFI-2025118—enable participating public agencies to procure essential accessibility services through a clear pathway. By utilizing Civic Marketplace, an AI-enabled procurement platform, public entities can easily discover and compare contracts, ensuring that they can adhere to compliance needs while navigating the complexities of procurement with greater ease.

“Accessibility compliance has emerged as a priority for public agencies, but implementing effective solutions can often feel overwhelming,” explained Chris Primiano from Edge Public. “Our partnership with Word Wizards, coupled with competitively awarded contracts, provides agencies with a straightforward and compliant method to act promptly.”

Meeting New Standards with Confidence

In 2024, the Department of Justice officially adopted WCAG 2.1 Level AA as the required technical standard for web content and mobile applications for state and local governments. The deadline for compliance has been extended, now requiring larger jurisdictions to conform by April 2027, and smaller ones by April 2028. Word Wizards aims to be the go-to resource for stakeholders eager to achieve compliance, providing them with the tools and support needed for success.

“Accessibility extends beyond meeting legal mandates; it empowers individuals with disabilities to access crucial information and participate in civic duties without barriers,” noted Benjamin Gordon, President of Word Wizards, Inc. “This partnership with Edge Public strengthens our capacity to deliver meaningful accessibility experiences to a broader audience.”

Transforming the Landscape of Public Agency Compliance

The collaboration is aligned with the mission of the Alliance for Innovation (AFI), which aims to equip local governments with effective and innovative solutions. The AFI emphasizes the importance of strategic leadership in driving long-term operational changes, a sentiment echoed by Michael Wilkes, Executive Director of AFI, who remarked on the growing perception of accessibility within local governments as not merely a compliance issue, but a fundamental operational responsibility.

Moreover, the introduction of these cooperative contracts comes as a timely response to the need for public agencies to transition from sporadic compliance efforts to adopting a sustainable operational framework for accessibility. “Overall, what we are witnessing is a constructive shift towards a culture of continuous improvement in accessibility,” said Wilkes.

Al Hleileh, Co-Founder and CEO of Civic Marketplace, added, “Agencies no longer need to sacrifice speed for compliance. Our platform provides a structured environment that allows teams to evaluate their choices confidently and achieve better outcomes.”

Conclusion

With these cooperative contracts now available, eligible public sector entities can access vital digital accessibility services to ensure compliance. The partnership between Edge Public and Word Wizards exemplifies a progressive step in enhancing digital accessibility within public agencies, ultimately fostering inclusive environments for all citizens.

About the Partners

Word Wizards, Inc. specializes in providing digital accessibility services, ensuring compliance with legal standards for over two decades. Their expertise encompasses a comprehensive range of accessible solutions catered to various governmental agencies.

Edge Public focuses on facilitating compliant purchasing through cooperative contracts, addressing public sector needs effectively and reducing administrative burdens. For more information, visit their respective websites.