Capability Consulting is a woman-owned small business that provides speaking, government affairs, external relations, and disability policy in order to facilitate the creation of a more civil society where the American Dream is achievable for anyone willing to work for it. Learn more about us. 

At Capability Consulting, we are dedicated to building a more inclusive and equitable society. Our expertise spans a range of services designed to empower individuals and organizations to achieve their highest potential. Learn more about our services.

We'd love to hear from you! Whether you're interested in collaborating or just have a question or comment, please don't hesitate to reach out. Contact us now.

Services

At Capability Consulting, we are dedicated to building a more inclusive and equitable society. Our expertise spans a range of services designed to empower individuals and organizations to achieve their highest potential. Here’s how we can help:

Government Affairs

We have decades of experience building relationships on Capitol Hill championing the needs of the disability community.

Navigating the ever-changing and complicated federal landscape can be daunting. Our Government Affairs service provides expert guidance to help you effectively influence and understand legislative processes.

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ADA Compliance

Ensuring your organization complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is not only a legal requirement but also a moral imperative. Our ADA Compliance service helps you identify and address accessibility barriers within your organization.

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Citizen Advocacy Training

Empower your community with the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for themselves and others. Our Citizen Advocacy Training equips individuals with the tools to effectively engage in the political process and influence public policy. 

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External Relations

Our External Relations service focuses on developing and maintaining strong partnerships with external entities, including clients, community groups, candidates, media, and public officials. We craft and deliver compelling messages, manage public perceptions, and foster partnerships that align with your goals. Enhance your organization’s visibility and positioning with our strategic external relations support.

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Speaking & Media Appearances

Melissa Ortiz is a seasoned speaker and award-winning Toastmaster with experience speaking to audiences as large as 100,000. With extensive television and radio experience, she is often tapped to represent voices of people living with disabilities.

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Inclusive Disability Policy

Creating inclusive policies that support individuals with disabilities is at the heart of our mission. Our Disability Wraparound Policy service offers comprehensive solutions that address the unique needs of the disability community.

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What People Are Saying

It is political malpractice for anyone to do anything on policy for people with disabilities and not first consult with Melissa Oritz and Capability Consulting.


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Paul S. Teller, Ph.D.
Executive Vice President, Advancing American Freedom

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One of my great fortunes in life was to work with Melissa Ortiz when she served as first Commissioner of Administration on Disabilities in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services... . She was most knowledgeable about the challenges facing people with disabilities, an outstanding advocate for the rights of the disabled, an expert on disability policy and the provisions of the ADA, and an innovative and excellent administrator. Congratulations on the founding of Capability Consulting which will contribute to the advancement of organizations dedicated to improving the lives of all Americans with disabilities. Given her vast experience as a national advocate for people with disabilities and an expert on policy, programs and services, Capability Consulting will become a significant national resource. Read more


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Michael Marge, EdD

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Melissa was a tremendous asset for the 2024 Tennessee Conference on Volunteerism and Service-Learning. Her workshops were professional, interactive, and engaging. She even volunteered to help when another workshop presenter dropped out. She filled that slot with grace and aplomb. As our panel moderator for one of our plenary sessions, she led the discussion with thoughtful and insightful questions and comments. Highly recommend Melissa if you want a high quality, knowledgeable presenter. Read more


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Candace Taylor
Training & Special Projects Manager
Volunteer Tennessee

Melissa is a tireless advocate, brilliant speaker, and a class act. Whether in a professional context, the faith community, or social, she brings passion and energy. Melissa knows her stuff, and when it comes to a project, she makes it happen! Any time I get to work or minister with Melissa, I count it as a true blessing.


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The Rev. Dr. Matthew Kozlowski

About the Founder & Principal

Melissa Ortiz is founder and principal of Capability Consulting, a speaker, and a self-described “happy patriot.” At Capability Consulting she advises on ADA-compliance, accessibility, and disability policy. A former presidential appointee, she served as the first Commissioner of the Administration on Disabilities under President Trump. She has penned op-eds for USA Today, Washington Times, Time Magazine, and other publications. She has been a featured contributor to news stories in both American and British outlets. Melissa has also served as a speaker, panelist, and emcee for a wide range of events. Prior to founding Capability Consulting, she served as Senior Advisor for Able Americans at the National Center for Public Policy Research. Melissa has also served as a visiting fellow for the Independent Women’s Forum and in 2005 served as Ms. Wheelchair New York. In 2011 she founded Able Americans where she worked as a consultant on disability issues as related to policy development and messaging. She also served as the first female board member of The Conservative Caucus. Melissa currently resides in Washington, D.C. with her husband and service dog dachshund, Annie Oakley. Connect with her on social media at @DCBelleOnWheels.
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Articles & Media Appearances


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