#USA #Lincoln #ADA Compliance #Civic Marketplace #Nelnet Services

Enhanced Accessibility for Local Governments

On September 8, 2026, Nelnet Government Services announced the availability of its accessibility assessment and remediation services via Civic Marketplace. This initiative allows state and local agencies, as well as public schools, streamlined access to the vital digital accessibility services they need, ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title II.

Simplified Procurement Process

Through the recently established cooperative purchasing contract with the Alliance for Innovation (AFI), Nelnet's services can be procured without requiring a new request for proposal (RFP). This innovation significantly reduces the time and effort needed to begin projects aimed at achieving digital accessibility, allowing agencies to meet compliance deadlines set by the Department of Justice (DOJ). With these pressing deadlines on the horizon, the streamlined service now offered via Civic Marketplace provides a quick route to implement necessary changes.

Eligible public agencies can utilize a variety of services, including:

• - Accessibility Assessments: Expert-led audits to identify barriers in web content, applications, and documents, alongside a clear compliance roadmap.
• - Remediation Services: Hands-on repair of digital content such as websites and mobile apps to ensure compatibility with assistive technologies.
• - Training and Ongoing Support: Providing staff with compliance documentation, training, and continuous governance as content evolves.

According to Marc Thorson, Lead Accessibility Architect at Nelnet, this initiative is crucial. He emphasized, "Every resident deserves digital services that work for them, and every agency deserves a partner who can help them get there without adding a lengthy procurement process." By facilitating access to their accessibility team through Civic Marketplace, Nelnet empowers agencies to initiate critical compliance work swiftly.

The Importance of Compliance

The DOJ's ADA Title II rule mandates that digital content, including websites and apps for state and local governments, must meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards. With extended compliance deadlines, larger entities have until April 26, 2027, while smaller ones have until April 26, 2028, to comply. However, the processes to audit and remediate digital content can be lengthy, often surpassing the expectations of many agencies.

Michael Wilkes, President and CEO of the Alliance for Innovation, noted that "Digital accessibility is a growing operational priority for local governments, and many agencies need specialized expertise to address it effectively." Through their partnership with AFI, Nelnet's proven expertise in accessibility is now more readily available to public agencies, equipping them with the capabilities to improve their services and enhance community welfare.

For instance, Nelnet's accessibility team has worked with Colorado's Office of Information Technology to align the myColorado app, which serves over a million residents, with WCAG 2.1 AA standards. This illustrates the tangible impact accessibility improvements can have for residents relying on digital services.

Get Started with Civic Marketplace

Agencies can now procure Nelnet’s digital accessibility services easily through the Civic Marketplace. Interested agencies should view the Nelnet contract listing on Civic Marketplace or contact Nelnet directly for initiation.

About Nelnet Government Services

Nelnet Government Services, traded under NYSE NNI, is dedicated to helping public entities achieve and sustain digital accessibility compliance, thereby creating more inclusive digital experiences.

About Alliance for Innovation

The Alliance for Innovation is a nonprofit organization promoting innovative solutions within local governments to enhance efficiency and community impact.

About Civic Marketplace

Civic Marketplace empowers local governments to modernize procurement processes devoid of financial burdens, enabling a more agile approach to sourcing necessary goods and services.

In summary, with Nelnet's accessibility services now part of the Civic Marketplace, public agencies have an important tool at their disposal to efficiently meet compliance requirements, enhance operational capabilities, and ultimately serve their communities better.