2026 Best Places to Work: Large Business
Meet the 2026 Best Places to Work Small Business recipients!
Blue Forest Realty Inc., Brokerage
Industry: Real Estate
Employees: 95
Year Founded: 2014
soldbyblue.ca
Creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported and connected is the philosophy behind Blue Forest Realty Inc. Founded in 2014 by Kathy Amess, the London-based brokerage was built on a simple idea: provide a great place for great realtors to work together.
Known affectionately as the “Blue Crew,” the team enjoys a collaborative, family-like atmosphere that emphasizes relationships over competition. Training, mentorship and professional support help employees and realtors develop their skills, while a culture of encouragement fosters individual and collective success.
Team-building activities, regular social gatherings and celebrations strengthen connections beyond everyday business. From office events to community initiatives, Blue Forest encourages employees to have fun, give back and build lasting friendships.
With a commitment to helping its people build rewarding careers and fulfilling lives, Blue Forest demonstrates that a successful real estate brokerage begins with a workplace where everyone belongs.
Cognition+
Industry: Insurance Technology, Enterprise Software
Employees: 131
Year Founded: 1996
gocognition.com
Cognition+ has established itself as a workplace where talented professionals are empowered to grow, contribute and thrive while developing innovative software solutions for the North American insurance industry. Founded in 1996, the company has built a workplace culture that values teamwork, professional growth and work-life balance.
With more than 100 employees, Cognition+ embraces a remote-first philosophy, offering flexible working arrangements, a 35-hour workweek, Summer Fridays and wellness days. Its comprehensive benefits, group RRSP and professional development opportunities demonstrate a commitment to helping employees thrive personally and professionally.
Continuous learning is encouraged through access to thousands of online courses, while recognition programs, virtual wellness activities and charitable initiatives foster connection and belonging.
Recognized among Canada’s Best Places to Work, Cognition+ demonstrates that technological innovation and a people-first culture go hand in hand. By empowering employees, celebrating achievements and encouraging collaboration, the company creates an environment where talented professionals can build rewarding careers.
Cohen Highley LLP
Industry: Law
Employees: 126
Year Founded: 1975
cohenhighley.com
Building successful careers and lasting relationships has been a cornerstone of Cohen Highley LLP since the London-based law firm was founded in 1974. With a workplace culture grounded in collegiality, mutual respect and professional growth, the firm has established itself as a place where employees can build rewarding, long-term careers.
Lawyers, paralegals and administrative professionals work collaboratively in an environment that celebrates individual talents, experiences and perspectives. Mentorship and career development are central to the firm’s philosophy, with many partners having begun their careers as students and numerous support staff celebrating more than 20 years of service.
Beyond the office, employees contribute to charitable initiatives and community organizations, reflecting the firm’s longstanding commitment to giving back.
By fostering an atmosphere of support, inclusion and shared achievement, Cohen Highley demonstrates that professional excellence begins with investing in people and creating a workplace where employees feel respected, appreciated and empowered to succeed.
Merrymount Family Support and Crisis Centre
Industry: Social Agency
Employees: 110
Year Founded: 1874
merrymount.on.ca
Making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families is more than a mission at Merrymount Family Support and Crisis Centre — it’s what inspires its dedicated team every day. Serving the London community since 1874, Merrymount has built a workplace rooted in compassion, collaboration and shared purpose.
With more than 100 employees, the organization brings together professionals committed to supporting children and families navigating difficult circumstances. From early childhood educators to mental health specialists and administrative staff, every team member contributes to creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment.
Employees have the opportunity to make a tangible difference through crisis intervention, family support and early childhood programs, while working alongside colleagues who share their commitment to community well-being.
By emphasizing teamwork, respect and professional excellence, Merrymount offers a rewarding environment where meaningful work and personal fulfillment intersect. Its greatest strength lies in the people dedicated to building stronger families and brighter futures.