Led by Inez Ashworth, Founder and Inclusion Lead, Inclusive Concepts Inc. is on a mission to revolutionize workplace culture across Canada. Based in Alberta, this consulting firm specializes in inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility, and belonging (IDEAB), helping organizations move beyond compliance to meaningful cultural transformation. By offering services such as leadership training, policy reviews, and organizational audits, Inclusive Concepts empowers businesses to create environments where everyone feels valued and authentically themselves.
What is your business called and what does it do?
My business is Inclusive Concepts Inc., a consulting firm specializing in inclusion and belonging. We partner with organizations to create workplaces where everyone feels valued and empowered. Through audits, policy reviews, leadership training, and community engagement, we help organizations move beyond compliance and into meaningful cultural transformation.
What made you want to do this work?
As a neurodiverse immigrant woman, I’ve always felt the importance of belonging. My passion for empowering people to be their authentic selves started early—I was the kid standing up to bullies and befriending the new kid in school. That sense of justice carried through my corporate career, and when I saw the impact I could have in making workplaces more inclusive, I knew I had to focus on it full-time.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I wanted to solve the disconnect between good intentions and actual, actionable inclusion. Many organizations want to embrace diversity but struggle to know how to do it sustainably. Inclusive Concepts helps bridge that gap by providing tools, strategies, and training to turn lofty goals into everyday practices.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Our clients range from small, medium, and large corporations in energy and finance to non-profits and public institutions. They all share a commitment to improving their organizational culture, whether they’re just starting their IDEAB journey or looking to deepen their efforts.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We generate revenue through consulting services, training programs, leadership development workshops, and organizational audits. Our approach is highly customized—we meet clients where they’re at and design programs that align with their goals and challenges.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
Inclusive Concepts is based in Alberta, but we operate across Canada, thanks to virtual tools and online platforms. However, you’ll also find us facilitating workshops, speaking at conferences, and engaging with community partners in person across Canada.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services?
The best question is: “How do you ensure your work leads to lasting change rather than just checking a box?”
The answer: We focus on sustainability and embedding IDEAB into every level of an organization. We don’t just deliver training and leave; we provide frameworks, tools, and metrics to ensure our work drives measurable outcomes and aligns with long-term goals.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is seeing the “aha” moments when leaders and teams realize the power of inclusion—not just for their business but for their people. The worst part? Knowing that change doesn’t happen overnight and that this work requires patience and persistence in the face of resistance.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Why don’t inclusion consultants play hide and seek? Because they’re always trying to make sure everyone feels seen!
Where can we follow you?
Website | LinkedIn | Instagram
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
As an entrepreneurial organization, we truly believe in supporting other local businesses that share the same passion and drive. Our favourite businesses are fellow entrepreneurs like Leanne Gawley Executive Coaching, ALLOFHR, and many others who are making an impact in their respective fields. It’s hard to choose just one because there are so many incredible businesses around us, each with their unique contributions to the community. We love collaborating with and cheering on other small businesses that are committed to growth, innovation, and making a difference.
