Researchers in KITE's immersive labratory test accessibility features for bathrooms.
The Accessibility 200 highlights the top organizations changing the lives of people with disabilities around the world.
UHN’s KITE Research Institute has been named to the 2026 Forbes Accessibility 200 list, released May 19. This is the second year in a row that Forbes has recognized KITE as one of the world’s leading organizations advancing accessibility.
“We’re incredibly proud to be named to the Forbes Accessibility list for the second year in a row,” says Dr. Milos R. Popovic, director of the KITE Research Institute. “Our work is driven by a simple goal: to use science to create solutions that genuinely improve people’s lives. It is so meaningful to see our impact recognized on a global stage.”
Other global leaders in accessibility that made the list this year include Apple, Nike and LG. Thirteen organizations from Canada were highlighted, including Access to Success, AccessNow, Humanware, and ICAIR-award winners Axtion Independence Mobility and ImaginAble solutions. Forbes highlighted the use of AI across many new accessibility innovations, from the Kindle Assistive Reader to using Copilot to translate complex materials into different reading levels.
The list was developed through more than 700 interviews and with guidance from a 12-member global expert panel with lived experience. The selection criteria focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, with an emphasis on broad, measurable impact.
“Accessibility has evolved from a legal mandate into a fast-growing area of innovation with real-world impact,” Alan Schwarz, Forbes Assistant Managing Editor, said. “From large companies to individual entrepreneurs, accessibility innovation is transforming how people communicate, travel, learn, work, and take part in everyday life. It is no longer just the right thing to do. It is central to smart business.”