Drake’s October’s Very Own inks capital investment from A.R.I.
Published
January 14, 2026
October’s Very Own (OVO) on Tuesday announced it has received capital investment from firm Applied Real Intelligence (A.R.I.), as the Canadian streetwear brand looks to increase its reach globally.

The U.S.-based investment firm highlighted the “demand for culturally authentic brands right now” adding that the “timing couldn’t be better for OVO,” a lifestyle brand founded by Aubrey “Drake” Graham, Oliver El-Khatib, and Noah “40” Shebib, in Toronto, in 2008.
“Recently, Human Made, the streetwear brand partially owned by Pharrell Williams, went public at nearly $500 million and was reportedly 60 times oversubscribed,” said Dr. Zack Ellison, A.R.I.’s founder and managing general partner.
“It’s a clear signal that investors see tremendous value in brands that blend creativity, community, and cultural credibility. OVO is uniquely positioned within that movement, combining global influence across fashion, music, sports, and a cultural and lifestyle presence that sets it apart.”
Since its inception nearly 20 years ago, OVO has evolved from a music collective into a fully-fledged lifestyle company with retail stores across Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, Calgary, and British Columbia, along with international locations in Los Angeles, New York, Las Vegas, and London.
Under the leadership of CEO Derek “Drex” Jancar, OVO will continue to scale its global e-commerce business, expand partnerships, and grow its physical retail footprint, with the help of the new A.R.I. funds, according to a press release.
“OVO represents the next generation of Canadian entrepreneurship,” said Dr. Ellison. “Drake, Oliver, and 40 created something culturally unparalleled, and Drex is now scaling that vision with remarkable discipline and strategic clarity. It’s a rare combination, and one that A.R.I. is proud to support.”
Financial terms of the investment were not disclosed.
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