DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — AM Group, the leading energy transition platform backed by the founders of Greenko Group, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Invest UP, Government of Uttar Pradesh to establish a 1 GW (Gigawatt) High Performance Compute Hub to serve global AI workloads.

AMG will establish an AI Infrastructure hub in the Greater Noida region in Uttar Pradesh with a total investment of ~ USD 25 Billion. This grand scale project will be developed in a phased manner with first capacity coming up in 2028 and full 1 GW capacity targeted to come up by 2030. This partnership underscores AM Group’s commitment to building a sustainable, carbon-neutral intelligent economy solutions and aligns with Uttar Pradesh’s vision to become India’s premier AI hub.

This project will be a multi-billion investment for the set-up of GW scale infrastructure with ~500,000 latest high-performance chipsets and will be one of the largest investments in country to-date aligned with the Indian Government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision to accelerate the expansion of AI-driven services.

Powering the Future of AI and High-Performance Compute

As India’s demand for high-performance computing (HPC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) workloads surges, this facility will be designed to meet the requirements of global hyperscalers, frontier labs, enterprises and India’s sovereign AI initiatives at scale and in speedy manner using carbon-free energy.

AMG AI labs, with its vision of Democratizing AI, is developing end-to-end value chain from efficient on-demand electron to intelligent token. These intelligent tokens form key inputs for customized models & applications across sectors including energy, healthcare, sovereign clouds, manufacturing, automotive, media & gaming amongst others.

This HPC compute capability will also enable chipset access to wider Indian developer community to fast track and develop AI solution stacks for global and domestic usage.

The AI hub will feature:

  • Scalable Infrastructure: Phased rollout with the first capacity being operational by 2028, scaling to the full 1 GW by 2030.
  • Strategic Location: Utilizing Uttar Pradesh’s robust industrial corridors and favourable Data Center Policy to provide low-latency and high reliable connectivity to growing digital markets.
  • Green Energy Integration: Leveraging AMG’s leadership in renewable energy, the facility will be powered by 24/7 carbon-free energy solutions, including wind, solar, and pumped storage.

A Catalyst for Economic Growth

The MoU was exchanged in the presence of senior government officials and the leadership team of AMG at World Economic Forum at Davos. The project is expected to attract significant foreign direct investment (FDI) and generate thousands of high-skilled jobs in the region, fostering a local ecosystem for hardware manufacturing, software development, and specialized cooling technologies.

“Evolution of global AI ecosystem with intentionality, intelligence and adaptability will be a pivotal tool for current & future generations. AMG AI labs focus on valorising electron agents into intelligent tokens is a natural extension of our technology-first approach to our businesses as the global AI ecosystem races towards Physical AI Solutions,” said Anil Chalamalasetty, Group Chairman, AM Group.

“By combining 1 GW of compute capacity with our 24/7 green power solutions, we are not just building a data center; we are creating a sustainable template for the future of global AI infrastructure with the support from State of Uttar Pradesh,” added Mahesh Kolli, Group President, AM Group.

About AM Group

AMG is promoted by founders of Greenko Group, which is among India’s leading renewable energy conglomerates. AMG is building globally differentiated platforms across molecules, materials and AI technologies to enable industrial decarbonization & competitive tokenization at scale.

Greenko will be a 50 GW Energy Infrastructure platform with presence across 20+ states across solar, wind, hydro and energy storage projects. Greenko is building world’s first interconnected energy storage solution with 100 GWh storage capacity across the country.

AMG is developing low-carbon ammonia projects across multiple locations in India with a goal to reach 5 Mtpa of green ammonia capacity. It’s currently under construction 1 Mtpa green ammonia plant will be one of the world’s largest RFNBO compliant green ammonia facilities, supporting efforts to achieve net zero targets both in India and global markets.

AMG is also developing production capabilities for other net zero molecules and chemicals including green caustic soda, e-methanol, olefins & biofuels including sustainable aviation fuel for decarbonization in hard to abate industries.

AMG Metals & Materials is setting up a 1 MTPA Green Aluminium production plant as part of wider green materials offering.

Media Contact for AM Group: Sheela Panicker, enright@enrightpr.com

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2865285/AM_Group_Logo.jpg

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/am-group-signs-landmark-mou-with-uttar-pradesh-government-to-set-up-gw-scale-ai-compute-hub-enabling-democratization-of-ai-from-electron-agents-to-intelligent-tokens-302665483.html

SOURCE AM Group

DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — AM Group, the leading energy transition platform backed by the founders of Greenko Group, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Invest UP, Government of Uttar Pradesh to establish a 1 GW (Gigawatt) High Performance Compute Hub to serve global AI workloads.

AMG will establish an AI Infrastructure hub in the Greater Noida region in Uttar Pradesh with a total investment of ~ USD 25 Billion. This grand scale project will be developed in a phased manner with first capacity coming up in 2028 and full 1 GW capacity targeted to come up by 2030. This partnership underscores AM Group’s commitment to building a sustainable, carbon-neutral intelligent economy solutions and aligns with Uttar Pradesh’s vision to become India’s premier AI hub.

This project will be a multi-billion investment for the set-up of GW scale infrastructure with ~500,000 latest high-performance chipsets and will be one of the largest investments in country to-date aligned with the Indian Government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision to accelerate the expansion of AI-driven services.

Powering the Future of AI and High-Performance Compute

As India’s demand for high-performance computing (HPC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) workloads surges, this facility will be designed to meet the requirements of global hyperscalers, frontier labs, enterprises and India’s sovereign AI initiatives at scale and in speedy manner using carbon-free energy.

AMG AI labs, with its vision of Democratizing AI, is developing end-to-end value chain from efficient on-demand electron to intelligent token. These intelligent tokens form key inputs for customized models & applications across sectors including energy, healthcare, sovereign clouds, manufacturing, automotive, media & gaming amongst others.

This HPC compute capability will also enable chipset access to wider Indian developer community to fast track and develop AI solution stacks for global and domestic usage.

The AI hub will feature:

  • Scalable Infrastructure: Phased rollout with the first capacity being operational by 2028, scaling to the full 1 GW by 2030.
  • Strategic Location: Utilizing Uttar Pradesh’s robust industrial corridors and favourable Data Center Policy to provide low-latency and high reliable connectivity to growing digital markets.
  • Green Energy Integration: Leveraging AMG’s leadership in renewable energy, the facility will be powered by 24/7 carbon-free energy solutions, including wind, solar, and pumped storage.

A Catalyst for Economic Growth

The MoU was exchanged in the presence of senior government officials and the leadership team of AMG at World Economic Forum at Davos. The project is expected to attract significant foreign direct investment (FDI) and generate thousands of high-skilled jobs in the region, fostering a local ecosystem for hardware manufacturing, software development, and specialized cooling technologies.

“Evolution of global AI ecosystem with intentionality, intelligence and adaptability will be a pivotal tool for current & future generations. AMG AI labs focus on valorising electron agents into intelligent tokens is a natural extension of our technology-first approach to our businesses as the global AI ecosystem races towards Physical AI Solutions,” said Anil Chalamalasetty, Group Chairman, AM Group.

“By combining 1 GW of compute capacity with our 24/7 green power solutions, we are not just building a data center; we are creating a sustainable template for the future of global AI infrastructure with the support from State of Uttar Pradesh,” added Mahesh Kolli, Group President, AM Group.

About AM Group

AMG is promoted by founders of Greenko Group, which is among India’s leading renewable energy conglomerates. AMG is building globally differentiated platforms across molecules, materials and AI technologies to enable industrial decarbonization & competitive tokenization at scale.

Greenko will be a 50 GW Energy Infrastructure platform with presence across 20+ states across solar, wind, hydro and energy storage projects. Greenko is building world’s first interconnected energy storage solution with 100 GWh storage capacity across the country.

AMG is developing low-carbon ammonia projects across multiple locations in India with a goal to reach 5 Mtpa of green ammonia capacity. It’s currently under construction 1 Mtpa green ammonia plant will be one of the world’s largest RFNBO compliant green ammonia facilities, supporting efforts to achieve net zero targets both in India and global markets.

AMG is also developing production capabilities for other net zero molecules and chemicals including green caustic soda, e-methanol, olefins & biofuels including sustainable aviation fuel for decarbonization in hard to abate industries.

AMG Metals & Materials is setting up a 1 MTPA Green Aluminium production plant as part of wider green materials offering.

Media Contact for AM Group: Sheela Panicker, enright@enrightpr.com

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2865285/AM_Group_Logo.jpg

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/am-group-signs-landmark-mou-with-uttar-pradesh-government-to-set-up-gw-scale-ai-compute-hub-enabling-democratization-of-ai-from-electron-agents-to-intelligent-tokens-302665483.html

SOURCE AM Group

DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — AM Group, the leading energy transition platform backed by the founders of Greenko Group, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Invest UP, Government of Uttar Pradesh to establish a 1 GW (Gigawatt) High Performance Compute Hub to serve global AI workloads.

AMG will establish an AI Infrastructure hub in the Greater Noida region in Uttar Pradesh with a total investment of ~ USD 25 Billion. This grand scale project will be developed in a phased manner with first capacity coming up in 2028 and full 1 GW capacity targeted to come up by 2030. This partnership underscores AM Group’s commitment to building a sustainable, carbon-neutral intelligent economy solutions and aligns with Uttar Pradesh’s vision to become India’s premier AI hub.

This project will be a multi-billion investment for the set-up of GW scale infrastructure with ~500,000 latest high-performance chipsets and will be one of the largest investments in country to-date aligned with the Indian Government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision to accelerate the expansion of AI-driven services.

Powering the Future of AI and High-Performance Compute

As India’s demand for high-performance computing (HPC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) workloads surges, this facility will be designed to meet the requirements of global hyperscalers, frontier labs, enterprises and India’s sovereign AI initiatives at scale and in speedy manner using carbon-free energy.

AMG AI labs, with its vision of Democratizing AI, is developing end-to-end value chain from efficient on-demand electron to intelligent token. These intelligent tokens form key inputs for customized models & applications across sectors including energy, healthcare, sovereign clouds, manufacturing, automotive, media & gaming amongst others.

This HPC compute capability will also enable chipset access to wider Indian developer community to fast track and develop AI solution stacks for global and domestic usage.

The AI hub will feature:

  • Scalable Infrastructure: Phased rollout with the first capacity being operational by 2028, scaling to the full 1 GW by 2030.
  • Strategic Location: Utilizing Uttar Pradesh’s robust industrial corridors and favourable Data Center Policy to provide low-latency and high reliable connectivity to growing digital markets.
  • Green Energy Integration: Leveraging AMG’s leadership in renewable energy, the facility will be powered by 24/7 carbon-free energy solutions, including wind, solar, and pumped storage.

A Catalyst for Economic Growth

The MoU was exchanged in the presence of senior government officials and the leadership team of AMG at World Economic Forum at Davos. The project is expected to attract significant foreign direct investment (FDI) and generate thousands of high-skilled jobs in the region, fostering a local ecosystem for hardware manufacturing, software development, and specialized cooling technologies.

“Evolution of global AI ecosystem with intentionality, intelligence and adaptability will be a pivotal tool for current & future generations. AMG AI labs focus on valorising electron agents into intelligent tokens is a natural extension of our technology-first approach to our businesses as the global AI ecosystem races towards Physical AI Solutions,” said Anil Chalamalasetty, Group Chairman, AM Group.

“By combining 1 GW of compute capacity with our 24/7 green power solutions, we are not just building a data center; we are creating a sustainable template for the future of global AI infrastructure with the support from State of Uttar Pradesh,” added Mahesh Kolli, Group President, AM Group.

About AM Group

AMG is promoted by founders of Greenko Group, which is among India’s leading renewable energy conglomerates. AMG is building globally differentiated platforms across molecules, materials and AI technologies to enable industrial decarbonization & competitive tokenization at scale.

Greenko will be a 50 GW Energy Infrastructure platform with presence across 20+ states across solar, wind, hydro and energy storage projects. Greenko is building world’s first interconnected energy storage solution with 100 GWh storage capacity across the country.

AMG is developing low-carbon ammonia projects across multiple locations in India with a goal to reach 5 Mtpa of green ammonia capacity. It’s currently under construction 1 Mtpa green ammonia plant will be one of the world’s largest RFNBO compliant green ammonia facilities, supporting efforts to achieve net zero targets both in India and global markets.

AMG is also developing production capabilities for other net zero molecules and chemicals including green caustic soda, e-methanol, olefins & biofuels including sustainable aviation fuel for decarbonization in hard to abate industries.

AMG Metals & Materials is setting up a 1 MTPA Green Aluminium production plant as part of wider green materials offering.

Media Contact for AM Group: Sheela Panicker, enright@enrightpr.com

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2865285/AM_Group_Logo.jpg

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/am-group-signs-landmark-mou-with-uttar-pradesh-government-to-set-up-gw-scale-ai-compute-hub-enabling-democratization-of-ai-from-electron-agents-to-intelligent-tokens-302665483.html

SOURCE AM Group

The IoT Breakthrough Awards program recognized the Lennox® L40 Smart Thermostat for its connected features, including geo-fencing, customizable schedules, guided configuration prompts, and system insight tools.

DALLAS, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Lennox (NYSE: LII) announced that the Lennox® L40 Smart Thermostat has been selected as the “Smart Thermostat of the Year” in the IoT Breakthrough Awards.

The IoT Breakthrough Awards recognize standout companies, technologies, and products shaping the Internet of Things ecosystem. The L40 Smart Thermostat was honored for its capabilities in system monitoring, home integration, and support for energy-efficient operation.

The L40 includes Smart Away® geo-fencing, which uses a homeowner’s smartphone GPS to detect when they leave or return home and adjust temperature settings accordingly. The thermostat also provides system alerts, maintenance reminders, and remote diagnostics that support timely identification of potential issues.

To streamline setup and configuration, the L40 offers guided prompts for Wi-Fi connection, account creation, and thermostat pairing. Homeowners can customize schedules, alerts, and One-Touch Away Mode, which shifts the system to preset heating and cooling set points. Custom equipment profiles configured by Lennox dealers help align thermostat settings with system type, location, and user preferences.

The Lennox L40 Smart Thermostat is managed through the Lennox Home app, which allows homeowners to adjust temperature settings, manage schedules, and monitor system status remotely. The app supports all Lennox equipment, thermostat pairing, system alerts, and maintenance notifications. These functions enable the L40 to integrate with leading smart home platforms.

Through built-in Matter compatibility, the L40 Smart Thermostat integrates as well with smart home platforms such as Samsung SmartThings and Apple HomeKit. It also supports ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Building36, and Control4.

“Developing smart connected controls requires balancing technical complexity with everyday usability,” said Lennox Chief Technology Officer Prakash Bedapudi. “The L40 smart thermostat design achieves that balance remarkably well by providing necessary functionality and system insights in an easy, intuitive way homeowners can understand. Our teams worked with real intention to get these details right, and I’m proud to see their effort acknowledged.”

Visit Lennox.com for more information on the L40 Smart Thermostat.

About Lennox: Lennox (NYSE: LII) is a leader in energy-efficient climate-control solutions. We are committed to sustainability and creating comfortable, healthier environments for residential and commercial customers. Our innovative portfolio includes cooling, heating, indoor air quality, and refrigeration systems, along with a comprehensive range of HVAC parts, supplies, and services that support the full lifecycle of customer needs. Additional information is available at www.lennox.com

Media Contact
pr@lennox.com

Investor Relations Contact
investor@lennox.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lennox-l40-smart-thermostat-named-smart-thermostat-of-the-year-in-the-iot-breakthrough-awards-302665469.html

SOURCE Lennox International Inc.

The IoT Breakthrough Awards program recognized the Lennox® L40 Smart Thermostat for its connected features, including geo-fencing, customizable schedules, guided configuration prompts, and system insight tools.

DALLAS, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Lennox (NYSE: LII) announced that the Lennox® L40 Smart Thermostat has been selected as the “Smart Thermostat of the Year” in the IoT Breakthrough Awards.

The IoT Breakthrough Awards recognize standout companies, technologies, and products shaping the Internet of Things ecosystem. The L40 Smart Thermostat was honored for its capabilities in system monitoring, home integration, and support for energy-efficient operation.

The L40 includes Smart Away® geo-fencing, which uses a homeowner’s smartphone GPS to detect when they leave or return home and adjust temperature settings accordingly. The thermostat also provides system alerts, maintenance reminders, and remote diagnostics that support timely identification of potential issues.

To streamline setup and configuration, the L40 offers guided prompts for Wi-Fi connection, account creation, and thermostat pairing. Homeowners can customize schedules, alerts, and One-Touch Away Mode, which shifts the system to preset heating and cooling set points. Custom equipment profiles configured by Lennox dealers help align thermostat settings with system type, location, and user preferences.

The Lennox L40 Smart Thermostat is managed through the Lennox Home app, which allows homeowners to adjust temperature settings, manage schedules, and monitor system status remotely. The app supports all Lennox equipment, thermostat pairing, system alerts, and maintenance notifications. These functions enable the L40 to integrate with leading smart home platforms.

Through built-in Matter compatibility, the L40 Smart Thermostat integrates as well with smart home platforms such as Samsung SmartThings and Apple HomeKit. It also supports ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Building36, and Control4.

“Developing smart connected controls requires balancing technical complexity with everyday usability,” said Lennox Chief Technology Officer Prakash Bedapudi. “The L40 smart thermostat design achieves that balance remarkably well by providing necessary functionality and system insights in an easy, intuitive way homeowners can understand. Our teams worked with real intention to get these details right, and I’m proud to see their effort acknowledged.”

Visit Lennox.com for more information on the L40 Smart Thermostat.

About Lennox: Lennox (NYSE: LII) is a leader in energy-efficient climate-control solutions. We are committed to sustainability and creating comfortable, healthier environments for residential and commercial customers. Our innovative portfolio includes cooling, heating, indoor air quality, and refrigeration systems, along with a comprehensive range of HVAC parts, supplies, and services that support the full lifecycle of customer needs. Additional information is available at www.lennox.com

Media Contact
pr@lennox.com

Investor Relations Contact
investor@lennox.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lennox-l40-smart-thermostat-named-smart-thermostat-of-the-year-in-the-iot-breakthrough-awards-302665469.html

SOURCE Lennox International Inc.

The IoT Breakthrough Awards program recognized the Lennox® L40 Smart Thermostat for its connected features, including geo-fencing, customizable schedules, guided configuration prompts, and system insight tools.

DALLAS, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Lennox (NYSE: LII) announced that the Lennox® L40 Smart Thermostat has been selected as the “Smart Thermostat of the Year” in the IoT Breakthrough Awards.

The IoT Breakthrough Awards recognize standout companies, technologies, and products shaping the Internet of Things ecosystem. The L40 Smart Thermostat was honored for its capabilities in system monitoring, home integration, and support for energy-efficient operation.

The L40 includes Smart Away® geo-fencing, which uses a homeowner’s smartphone GPS to detect when they leave or return home and adjust temperature settings accordingly. The thermostat also provides system alerts, maintenance reminders, and remote diagnostics that support timely identification of potential issues.

To streamline setup and configuration, the L40 offers guided prompts for Wi-Fi connection, account creation, and thermostat pairing. Homeowners can customize schedules, alerts, and One-Touch Away Mode, which shifts the system to preset heating and cooling set points. Custom equipment profiles configured by Lennox dealers help align thermostat settings with system type, location, and user preferences.

The Lennox L40 Smart Thermostat is managed through the Lennox Home app, which allows homeowners to adjust temperature settings, manage schedules, and monitor system status remotely. The app supports all Lennox equipment, thermostat pairing, system alerts, and maintenance notifications. These functions enable the L40 to integrate with leading smart home platforms.

Through built-in Matter compatibility, the L40 Smart Thermostat integrates as well with smart home platforms such as Samsung SmartThings and Apple HomeKit. It also supports ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Building36, and Control4.

“Developing smart connected controls requires balancing technical complexity with everyday usability,” said Lennox Chief Technology Officer Prakash Bedapudi. “The L40 smart thermostat design achieves that balance remarkably well by providing necessary functionality and system insights in an easy, intuitive way homeowners can understand. Our teams worked with real intention to get these details right, and I’m proud to see their effort acknowledged.”

Visit Lennox.com for more information on the L40 Smart Thermostat.

About Lennox: Lennox (NYSE: LII) is a leader in energy-efficient climate-control solutions. We are committed to sustainability and creating comfortable, healthier environments for residential and commercial customers. Our innovative portfolio includes cooling, heating, indoor air quality, and refrigeration systems, along with a comprehensive range of HVAC parts, supplies, and services that support the full lifecycle of customer needs. Additional information is available at www.lennox.com

Media Contact
pr@lennox.com

Investor Relations Contact
investor@lennox.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lennox-l40-smart-thermostat-named-smart-thermostat-of-the-year-in-the-iot-breakthrough-awards-302665469.html

SOURCE Lennox International Inc.

Originally published by Mastercard

TORONTO, January 20, 2026 /3BL/ – Mastercard is shining a spotlight on Indigenous small businesses as part of the Toronto Maple Leafs Indigenous Celebration Game. In partnership with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), Mastercard will transform a dedicated space at Real Sports Apparel at Scotiabank Arena into the inaugural The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace presented by Mastercard. Limited-edition merchandise from Indigenous-owned small businesses will be available for purchase, starting on January 10 when the Toronto Maple Leafs take on the Vancouver Canucks, until January 21, 2026*.

Fans can support these Indigenous small businesses by purchasing the authentic and meaningful products they created exclusively for the marketplace, as all sales go directly back to their businesses.

Get to know the Indigenous Playmakers:

  1. aaniin: An Indigenous retailer, founded by Chelsee Pettit in Tkaronto in 2021 with a mission to initiate conversations on native languages by incorporating Indigenous Syllabics into aaniin designs, created a custom tote bag for fans.
  2. FOR4GED Candle Company: With a desire to share traditional knowledge and promote balance and wellness for all, founder Taylor Parker makes hand-poured candles, blended with traditional Haudenosaunee ingredients, and created a special-edition scent for this marketplace.
  3. Kokom Scrunchies: A family-run Indigenous business founded in 2019 by Mya Beaudry, an Algonquin youth from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation, and her mother Marcie Beaudry, the duo created a special edition scrunchie pack.
  4. MINI TIPI: Co-founded in 2016 by Trisha Pitura, a member of Nipissing First Nation, and Melanie Bernard, from Quebec City of settler descent, they aim to address the lack of authentic Indigenous designs in the textile industry and created a custom blanket for fans.

As a long-standing champion of small business, Mastercard is committed to helping small-business owners, including Indigenous entrepreneurs, grow by providing opportunities and resources that can help them scale. Through digital enablement, cybersecurity educational tools, access to funding, mentorship and community building, these resources are designed to help small businesses achieve their business goals wherever they are in their journey.

“Indigenous small businesses play a crucial role in strengthening our local economies and it’s important to create opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to showcase their talent and share their culture,” said Shawna Miller, senior vice president, Marketing & Communications at Mastercard  Canada. “We’re honoured to partner with MLSE and an inspiring group of Indigenous small business owners to showcase their work, grow their audience and ultimately help empower their journey toward sustained business success.”

As presenting partner of the Maple Leafs Indigenous Celebration Game, Mastercard will bring fans into the experience alongside the team to further support the Indigenous community, and more specifically, the Indigenous small business community. Fans attending the game can expect to see a ceremonial flag designed by Indigenous artist Jennifer Taback carried through the arena by fans in a shared ritual that symbolizes unity, respect and the power of community. In addition, a live Indigenous drum circle performance from Smoke Trail Singers Drum Group will take place on ice that will turn the entire arena into a living rhythm of culture and connection. Stories of Indigenous small business owners will also be featured on the in-arena videoboard to celebrate resilience and amplify Indigenous voices.

“The Maple Leafs’ annual Indigenous Celebration Night is an opportunity to amplify, honour and celebrate Indigenous cultures, and collaborating with partners who share this commitment helps elevate the experience to new heights,” said Jordan Vader, senior vice president, Global Partnerships, MLSE. “Together with Mastercard, we look forward to debuting The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace and give fans a new, unique avenue to support Indigenous small businesses while cheering on their favourite team.”

“Indigenous businesses are full of incredible creativity, craftsmanship, and culture,” said Chelsee Pettit, founder of aaniin. “The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace not only helps grow my business—it’s showcasing the stories, traditions, and perspectives that make Indigenous entrepreneurship so unique. I’m proud to be part of something that uplifts the entire community and showcases the amazing talent of so many Indigenous small businesses.”

Learn more about how Mastercard supports all small businesses in Canada here.

*The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace will be open in Real Sports Apparel on January 10, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20 and 21.

Media contact
Helena Wade, Mastercard, Canada
helena.wade@mastercard.com

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

www.mastercard.com

Continue reading here

Follow along Mastercard’s journey to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere.

Originally published by Mastercard

TORONTO, January 20, 2026 /3BL/ – Mastercard is shining a spotlight on Indigenous small businesses as part of the Toronto Maple Leafs Indigenous Celebration Game. In partnership with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), Mastercard will transform a dedicated space at Real Sports Apparel at Scotiabank Arena into the inaugural The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace presented by Mastercard. Limited-edition merchandise from Indigenous-owned small businesses will be available for purchase, starting on January 10 when the Toronto Maple Leafs take on the Vancouver Canucks, until January 21, 2026*.

Fans can support these Indigenous small businesses by purchasing the authentic and meaningful products they created exclusively for the marketplace, as all sales go directly back to their businesses.

Get to know the Indigenous Playmakers:

  1. aaniin: An Indigenous retailer, founded by Chelsee Pettit in Tkaronto in 2021 with a mission to initiate conversations on native languages by incorporating Indigenous Syllabics into aaniin designs, created a custom tote bag for fans.
  2. FOR4GED Candle Company: With a desire to share traditional knowledge and promote balance and wellness for all, founder Taylor Parker makes hand-poured candles, blended with traditional Haudenosaunee ingredients, and created a special-edition scent for this marketplace.
  3. Kokom Scrunchies: A family-run Indigenous business founded in 2019 by Mya Beaudry, an Algonquin youth from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation, and her mother Marcie Beaudry, the duo created a special edition scrunchie pack.
  4. MINI TIPI: Co-founded in 2016 by Trisha Pitura, a member of Nipissing First Nation, and Melanie Bernard, from Quebec City of settler descent, they aim to address the lack of authentic Indigenous designs in the textile industry and created a custom blanket for fans.

As a long-standing champion of small business, Mastercard is committed to helping small-business owners, including Indigenous entrepreneurs, grow by providing opportunities and resources that can help them scale. Through digital enablement, cybersecurity educational tools, access to funding, mentorship and community building, these resources are designed to help small businesses achieve their business goals wherever they are in their journey.

“Indigenous small businesses play a crucial role in strengthening our local economies and it’s important to create opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to showcase their talent and share their culture,” said Shawna Miller, senior vice president, Marketing & Communications at Mastercard  Canada. “We’re honoured to partner with MLSE and an inspiring group of Indigenous small business owners to showcase their work, grow their audience and ultimately help empower their journey toward sustained business success.”

As presenting partner of the Maple Leafs Indigenous Celebration Game, Mastercard will bring fans into the experience alongside the team to further support the Indigenous community, and more specifically, the Indigenous small business community. Fans attending the game can expect to see a ceremonial flag designed by Indigenous artist Jennifer Taback carried through the arena by fans in a shared ritual that symbolizes unity, respect and the power of community. In addition, a live Indigenous drum circle performance from Smoke Trail Singers Drum Group will take place on ice that will turn the entire arena into a living rhythm of culture and connection. Stories of Indigenous small business owners will also be featured on the in-arena videoboard to celebrate resilience and amplify Indigenous voices.

“The Maple Leafs’ annual Indigenous Celebration Night is an opportunity to amplify, honour and celebrate Indigenous cultures, and collaborating with partners who share this commitment helps elevate the experience to new heights,” said Jordan Vader, senior vice president, Global Partnerships, MLSE. “Together with Mastercard, we look forward to debuting The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace and give fans a new, unique avenue to support Indigenous small businesses while cheering on their favourite team.”

“Indigenous businesses are full of incredible creativity, craftsmanship, and culture,” said Chelsee Pettit, founder of aaniin. “The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace not only helps grow my business—it’s showcasing the stories, traditions, and perspectives that make Indigenous entrepreneurship so unique. I’m proud to be part of something that uplifts the entire community and showcases the amazing talent of so many Indigenous small businesses.”

Learn more about how Mastercard supports all small businesses in Canada here.

*The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace will be open in Real Sports Apparel on January 10, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20 and 21.

Media contact
Helena Wade, Mastercard, Canada
helena.wade@mastercard.com

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

www.mastercard.com

Continue reading here

Follow along Mastercard’s journey to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere.

Originally published by Mastercard

TORONTO, January 20, 2026 /3BL/ – Mastercard is shining a spotlight on Indigenous small businesses as part of the Toronto Maple Leafs Indigenous Celebration Game. In partnership with Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), Mastercard will transform a dedicated space at Real Sports Apparel at Scotiabank Arena into the inaugural The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace presented by Mastercard. Limited-edition merchandise from Indigenous-owned small businesses will be available for purchase, starting on January 10 when the Toronto Maple Leafs take on the Vancouver Canucks, until January 21, 2026*.

Fans can support these Indigenous small businesses by purchasing the authentic and meaningful products they created exclusively for the marketplace, as all sales go directly back to their businesses.

Get to know the Indigenous Playmakers:

  1. aaniin: An Indigenous retailer, founded by Chelsee Pettit in Tkaronto in 2021 with a mission to initiate conversations on native languages by incorporating Indigenous Syllabics into aaniin designs, created a custom tote bag for fans.
  2. FOR4GED Candle Company: With a desire to share traditional knowledge and promote balance and wellness for all, founder Taylor Parker makes hand-poured candles, blended with traditional Haudenosaunee ingredients, and created a special-edition scent for this marketplace.
  3. Kokom Scrunchies: A family-run Indigenous business founded in 2019 by Mya Beaudry, an Algonquin youth from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation, and her mother Marcie Beaudry, the duo created a special edition scrunchie pack.
  4. MINI TIPI: Co-founded in 2016 by Trisha Pitura, a member of Nipissing First Nation, and Melanie Bernard, from Quebec City of settler descent, they aim to address the lack of authentic Indigenous designs in the textile industry and created a custom blanket for fans.

As a long-standing champion of small business, Mastercard is committed to helping small-business owners, including Indigenous entrepreneurs, grow by providing opportunities and resources that can help them scale. Through digital enablement, cybersecurity educational tools, access to funding, mentorship and community building, these resources are designed to help small businesses achieve their business goals wherever they are in their journey.

“Indigenous small businesses play a crucial role in strengthening our local economies and it’s important to create opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to showcase their talent and share their culture,” said Shawna Miller, senior vice president, Marketing & Communications at Mastercard  Canada. “We’re honoured to partner with MLSE and an inspiring group of Indigenous small business owners to showcase their work, grow their audience and ultimately help empower their journey toward sustained business success.”

As presenting partner of the Maple Leafs Indigenous Celebration Game, Mastercard will bring fans into the experience alongside the team to further support the Indigenous community, and more specifically, the Indigenous small business community. Fans attending the game can expect to see a ceremonial flag designed by Indigenous artist Jennifer Taback carried through the arena by fans in a shared ritual that symbolizes unity, respect and the power of community. In addition, a live Indigenous drum circle performance from Smoke Trail Singers Drum Group will take place on ice that will turn the entire arena into a living rhythm of culture and connection. Stories of Indigenous small business owners will also be featured on the in-arena videoboard to celebrate resilience and amplify Indigenous voices.

“The Maple Leafs’ annual Indigenous Celebration Night is an opportunity to amplify, honour and celebrate Indigenous cultures, and collaborating with partners who share this commitment helps elevate the experience to new heights,” said Jordan Vader, senior vice president, Global Partnerships, MLSE. “Together with Mastercard, we look forward to debuting The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace and give fans a new, unique avenue to support Indigenous small businesses while cheering on their favourite team.”

“Indigenous businesses are full of incredible creativity, craftsmanship, and culture,” said Chelsee Pettit, founder of aaniin. “The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace not only helps grow my business—it’s showcasing the stories, traditions, and perspectives that make Indigenous entrepreneurship so unique. I’m proud to be part of something that uplifts the entire community and showcases the amazing talent of so many Indigenous small businesses.”

Learn more about how Mastercard supports all small businesses in Canada here.

*The Indigenous Playmaker Marketplace will be open in Real Sports Apparel on January 10, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20 and 21.

Media contact
Helena Wade, Mastercard, Canada
helena.wade@mastercard.com

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

www.mastercard.com

Continue reading here

Follow along Mastercard’s journey to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere.

International Olympic Committee news

The Games’ organisers are making the best use of the world-class venues already woven into the landscape, across Northern Italy’s cities, valleys and Alpine towns. The Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Villages follow the same mode, redefining the concept of Olympic living: from Milan’s city centre through to Cortina’s Dolomite valleys and Livigno’s high-altitude borderlands, the decentralised Games won’t have a single campus. Instead, six Olympic Villages will seamlessly adapt to their surroundings: some developed through new constructions, renovations or temporary structures; others hosted within existing hotels, transforming them into fully integrated Village environments. Together, the Villages form a network rooted in the character and unique needs of each host community.

Key facts:

  • Milano Cortina 2026 will have six Olympic Villages across Northern Italy – in Milan, Livigno, Bormio, Predazzo, Anterselva and Cortina – combining new, temporary and existing facilities tailored to local contexts.
  • Each location is designed to make the most of existing or temporary structures, minimising new construction and adapting to local needs, while ensuring all athletes can enjoy the full Olympic experience.
  • The newly built Milano Olympic Village, located in the Porta Romana district, will become a permanent student neighbourhood, while other sites will return to tourism or open space, reflecting a focus on reuse and lasting local value.

The geography of Northern Italy makes this approach both logical and necessary. Venues are spread between Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo and the Alpine valleys of Lombardy, Trentino and South Tyrol, linked by a carefully planned network. With Olympic Villages in Milan, Cortina, Livigno, Bormio, Predazzo and Anterselva, no athlete is too far from their competition site.

At the same time, efforts have been made to ensure all athletes can enjoy the full Olympic experience. Milan Cortina 2026 will be the first edition of the Winter Games with a multi-centred model. The Opening Ceremony will also reflect the Games’ multi-centred model: thanks to an innovative and inclusive project, all athletes will be able to participate in a shared experience between Milan, Cortina, Valtellina and Val di Fiemme. As a result of this approach, more athletes than ever before will have the possibility to take part in the Opening Ceremony and be part of the parade of their delegation.

Olympic Villages have always reflected their time – from wooden huts in 1924 to lasting community neighbourhoods today. Each edition tells a story about the context and ambitions of its hosts. Milano Cortina 2026 continues this evolution, showing that housing athletes is about more than logistics – it’s about creating lasting value for local people.

Marie Sallois IOC Director for Sustainability

Milan – Porta Romana’s urban reinvention

In the southeast of the city, the abandoned Porta Romana railway yard is being reborn as the Milan Olympic and Paralympic Village. Once a tangle of sidings and warehouses, the site is now home to six new residential blocks with pale façades and clean, geometric lines, set around tree-lined courtyards, alongside two restored brick depots that preserve the site’s industrial character.

During the Games, it will accommodate about 1,500 residents. After the Games, it will be converted into a vibrant neighbourhood offering 1,700 student beds, including subsidised accommodation, interwoven with cafés, shops and green spaces.

The project is part of Milan’s long-term regeneration plan, stitching an industrial scar into the urban fabric. Sustainability is embedded throughout: the Village is targeting LEED Gold certification through rooftop solar panels, rainwater reuse systems, heat pumps and low-carbon materials. The Village Plaza, a wide, pedestrian square framed by the new buildings, will become a public space for markets and community life after the Games.

Cortina – A Temporary Solution in the Dolomites

Cortina d’Ampezzo, the “Queen of the Dolomites” and host of the 1956 Games, will once again welcome the world. Its 2026 Olympic Village, located in Fiames just north of the town, is purposefully temporary: a modular complex built from mobile, prefabricated units. About 377 of these compact wooden-clad homes, each about the size of a small apartment and equipped with modern climate control and ergonomic furnishings, will be arranged in orderly rows, connected by walkways and plazas. The result is a pop-up Alpine town for 1,400 residents, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Pomagagnon and Tofane peaks.

During the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Village will function as a compact community with dining halls and shared recreation spaces. Then, it will be dismantled, returning the land to open space.

Livigno – adapted Alpine lodges

High in the Alps near the Swiss border, Livigno is renowned worldwide as a hub for freestyle and snowboard sports. Instead of building a new facility, three traditional Alpine lodges with timber balconies and pitched roofs will be adapted to host athletes just steps from the slopes. After the Games, these lodges will return to Livigno’s vibrant hospitality sector, avoiding new construction while strengthening the town’s established tourism economy.

Bormio – historic ski resort welcomes Olympians

Further west, Bormio will welcome athletes in existing hotels, located close to the Alpine skiing venues. This approach allows the resort to make the most of its existing infrastructure while ensuring athletes stay close to their competition sites.

Anterselva – hotels accommodate athletes

In Anterselva, world-renowned for biathlon, athletes will be accommodated in existing hotels. After the Games, they will return to regular tourism, embodying the same principle of adaptation and reuse that defines Milano Cortina 2026.

Predazzo – existing facilities upgraded for the Games

In Predazzo, within the Val di Fiemme cluster, an existing facility is being renovated to accommodate athletes and officials, including those competing in Tesero. It combines modernisation with respect for the town’s character and heritage.

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.