Celebrating AdaptAbility: Calgary’s Small Business of the Year

This year, AdaptAbility was honoured with the Small Business of the Year Award at the Calgary Small Business Awards, recognizing its essential contributions to the community. Founded by Tara Nelson in October 2021, AdaptAbility emerged from a personal need—a journey that began in her basement and has evolved into a brick-and-mortar location in Calgary’s University District in March 2023. With a mission of being a trusted resource for providing special needs products and information, AdaptAbility is reshaping the landscape of special needs support in Calgary and beyond.

Filling a community gap

Tara's inspiration for starting AdaptAbility came from her experiences raising her son, who has special needs. She recognized a significant gap in the market for products tailored to families like hers. Noticing the lack of physical stores offering clothing, toys or daily living and functional aids for special needs, Tara became determined to make a change.

“We started AdaptAbility because we figured that we could fill that gap and be the solution to that problem,” Tara explains. “If we were having that issue, then there was a good chance that a lot of other families were also in that same boat.”

Providing a sensory-friendly environment for individuals with special needs and disabilities, Tara explains the importance of having a physical storefront, as everything in the special needs industry isn’t always one-size-fits-all.

“Some people have sensory sensitivities to smells, sounds or textures. We really value the ability for customers to come into our store and have a sensory-friendly experience.”

Serving a wide range of disabilities and diverse needs, AdaptAbility caters to individuals of all ages, from infants to seniors. “It’s really a store for everybody,” she emphasizes, mentioning that their products can be utilized by those experiencing Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, stroke recovery, autism or sensory integration issues.

With the goal of providing tools that can improve the daily lives of individuals, AdaptAbility offers items that are also useful to teachers or caregivers. By promoting independence, comfort and overall well-being for the users of its products, AdaptAbility ensures there is something for everyone through their expansive offerings.

Small Business of the Year

As the winner of this year’s Small Business of the Year Award, Tara says it has provided significant encouragement for her team, validating the hard work and dedication they pour into their mission.

“We honestly weren’t expecting to win,” she admits. “It’s such a huge boost for our morale and for our motivation to keep pushing forward.”

Noting how the recognition has made the hard days worthwhile, Tara also emphasizes the positive impact their team and community have made on the organization.

“We have so many incredible staff, volunteers and friends of AdaptAbility that brighten our day. We enjoy all the families that come in and the people we get to help.”

By fostering connections and offering valuable resources, AdaptAbility aims to change the narrative around support for families with special needs. In doing so, Tara also asserts the importance of providing local connections and support.

“We work quite closely with a lot of non-profit organizations, helping with fundraisers, silent auctions, golf tournaments and sponsorships.”

Their commitment to community service also extends to collaborations with CP Kids and Families, the Ronald McDonald House, Easter Seals Alberta, the Alberta Children’s Hospital’s Special Children’s Fund and other local charities that help families in need receive the support they require.

Turning passion into impact

For Tara, the journey into entrepreneurship has been filled with both challenges and rewards. When it comes to starting a business, Tara explains the importance of finding a passion and becoming a reliable resource for the community.

“You’re going to have good days and bad days. You just have to keep pushing through and keep your eye on the end goal. Have confidence in what you’re doing and know that you are making a difference.”

With ambitious plans ahead for AdaptAbility, Tara shares that they plan to grow and enhance their offerings by developing sensory rooms for schools, care centers and homes.

“Our goal is to expand and maybe open a couple more stores, whether in Calgary or in other cities in Canada,” she reveals. “We’re trying to reach more organizations and companies that can benefit from that.”

As Tara continues to lead AdaptAbility, her vision for a more inclusive community remains at the forefront. With the recent award recognition and ongoing commitment to providing resources and support, AdaptAbility is not just filling a gap but building a community where everyone can thrive.

“That’s what keeps us going—being able to help somebody and finding them something that will genuinely improve their lives.”

To learn more about AdaptAbility, visit adaptabilitystore.ca. See the full list of winners from the 41st Calgary Small Business Awards.

Small Business Week is proudly presented by our Small Business Pillar Partner, Rogers Business. To learn more, visit: calgarychamber.com/small-business.