Great Lakes Bay Region CVB – Case Study

Project Dates:

2024-2025

Project Components:

• Conducted accessibility assessments for 90 facilities across hotels, attractions, and restaurants.
• Reviewed digital accessibility for 90 websites to improve online trip-planning.
• Delivered five accessibility training modules for hospitality and attraction staff.
• Led a Leadership Workshop to strengthen community accessibility efforts.

The Great Lakes Bay Region CVB partnered with Sage Inclusion to strengthen accessibility and create a more welcoming experience for travelers with disabilities. Over twelve months, Sage conducted accessibility assessments for 90 facilities and digital reviews for 90 websites, ensuring both physical and online experiences met ADA and ISO standards.

Five customized training modules equipped local hospitality teams with practical skills to serve guests with diverse needs, while a Sage Accessibility Leadership Workshop guided community leaders to embed accessibility within long-term tourism plans. The initiative enhanced staff confidence, improved compliance, and established the region as a model for inclusive tourism in Michigan.

Impact & Project Results:

• Certification outcomes by disability type
  • Mobility: [19] Gold, [71] Silver
  • Vision: [54] Gold, [36] Silver
  • Hearing: [43] Gold, [36] Silver
  • Neurodivergence: [12] Gold, [78] Silver
  • Allergy: [13] Gold, [66] Silver
• DMO badges achieved: [2 Gold/3 Silver] for Mobility, Vision, Hearing, Neurodivergence, Allergy.
• Training impact: Increased capacities of location staff to serve People with Disabilities, leading to more confident, consistent guest service (43 people educated).
• Marketing impact: Improved reputation for accessibility and increased visibility that helps attract new visitors with disabilities and their families.