Request for Information (RFI) on Accessible Digital Technologies including Artificial Intelligence Systems

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) has issued Request for Information (RFI) 100032851 to gather data from digital technology vendors and suppliers to inform the next phase of Digital Technologies Accessibility Regulations under the Accessible Canada Act. The primary objective is to collect insights on current accessibility capabilities, policies, and practices regarding software, hardware, and artificial intelligence systems. Specifically, the government is seeking information on how accessibility is integrated throughout the product lifecycle, including design, development, testing, deployment, and procurement, as well as the barriers and organizational readiness associated with meeting future requirements. The RFI emphasizes alignment with recognized international standards, including the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), Section 508 of the U.S. Rehabilitation Act, and the CAN/ASC-EN 301 549:2024 ICT Standard. This process is for information-gathering purposes only and does not constitute a call for tenders or a commitment to award contracts. Interested respondents must submit their electronic responses to the contracting authority by January 29, 2027, at 2:00 PM EST. Submissions should follow specific formatting guidelines, including a detailed title page and a numbering system that corresponds to the RFI, while clearly marking any proprietary or confidential information.