London is growing across business, sports, and community

London, London, Ontario is on the move.

Our City has been making national and international headlines this month, reinforcing what many of us already know. London is a place where innovation scales, culture travels, and community leadership shows up. From a billion dollar vote of confidence in our fitness sector to a creative scene catching the attention of pro athletes, London continues to punch above its weight.

Here is a snapshot of the momentum across business, culture, health, community, and sport.

Business: a billion dollar vote of confidence

One of the biggest headlines this week comes from a homegrown giant, GoodLife Fitness. Apollo Global Management has announced a strategic minority investment in The GoodLife Group, valuing the company at approximately $2 billion CAD.

This marks the first time the London founded fitness leader has taken on outside equity capital. Founder David “Patch” Patchell-Evans will remain Chairman, keeping leadership and vision rooted in Canada. The partnership is expected to accelerate growth and reinforces London’s reputation not only as a startup hub, but also as a headquarters city for globally competitive companies.

Momentum in tech continues as well. MyLondon App has secured RBC as its exclusive financial sponsor, helping scale the app’s ability to connect newcomers, students, and residents with essential local information. EventConnect also continues to grow, streamlining travel for youth sports teams and supporting the local economy through sports tourism.

Arts and culture: going viral with the pros

London’s creative economy is gaining real traction. A local artist has been drawing major attention for building a strong following among NFL and NBA players, turning a niche passion into a viral moment.

It is a timely reminder that in a digital first world, Southwestern Ontario talent can export culture to the biggest stages anywhere. This is the kind of creative export story we want to keep championing.

Health and research: $10.7M for innovation at Western

Western University continues to lead in medical research and innovation. This month, researchers secured $10.7 million in new federal funding to tackle major health care challenges.

That includes work led by Dr. Maria Mathews on family medicine business models, focused on improving primary care retention. It also includes promising clinical trial work in cancer research involving fecal microbiota transplantation, exploring new approaches in melanoma treatment.

Community: Root Awakening and the spotlight on food security

Community innovation is also front and centre. Root Awakening, a new documentary commissioned by Bell Fibe TV1, is set to premiere and highlights the impact of The PATCH, the urban farm project by Hutton House.

The documentary explores how urban farming is helping address food insecurity right here in London. A public screening is scheduled at Grand Theatre on February 18, 2026.

Sports: the road to 2028 starts here

Squash fans should mark the calendar. The NASH Cup is confirmed for September 14 to 19, 2026, at London Squash & Fitness Club.

With squash officially added for the 2028 Summer Olympics, this PSA tour stop will carry extra significance. It is an opportunity to watch elite athletes chasing Olympic qualification, right in our own backyard.

Mentorship: empowering the next generation

The Chamber is also proud to see the continued momentum around mentorship in our city. Our Women’s Mentorship Program launched late last month, and alongside recent mentorship success stories helping launch careers for Black students in London, it is clear that our business community is committed to lifting as we climb.

London is open for business, ready for play, and building for the future.

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