Better Future: Pioneering Growth and Community in San Diego and Beyond
As you walk or drive around San Diego, it’s nearly impossible to avoid encountering a Better Future brand. While the name of this private equity firm might not make sense, the impact of the brands it has nurtured is unmistakable. And it’s all down to two San Diego locals, Shannon and Billy Canu, who have […]
As you walk or drive around San Diego, it’s nearly impossible to avoid encountering a Better Future brand. While the name of this private equity firm might not make sense, the impact of the brands it has nurtured is unmistakable.
And it’s all down to two San Diego locals, Shannon and Billy Canu, who have built a company renowned for reshaping small businesses and transforming communities. Through BetterFuture, the Canus’ vision is straightforward yet deeply impactful: to identify local companies brimming with heart, potential, and passion, and to assist them in scaling, growing, and thriving within their communities.
Fox and Jane Salons
Since its inception, Better Future has been behind the creation and expansion of some of the most recognizable brands in Southern California. They include Renegade, a high-energy group fitness studio; YogaBox, a beloved San Diego staple for yogis of all levels; Maverick’sBarbershop, a modern grooming experience; FoxandJaneSalon, a top-tier hair salon; MellowMassage and SkinHabit, a leading facial studio. What sets Better Future apart is its ability to cultivate a sense of community and belonging in every concept it touches.
Their success story began in San Diego, where they opened the first Renegade in 2017. With just one location, their commitment to crafting exceptional member experiences helped them rapidly scale to multiple regional studios, while retaining core local community values.
The same story followed with Yoga Box, which quickly became a go-to destination for seasoned yogis and those new to the practice. These brands thrive in San Diego and have expanded into New York, Phoenix, Chicago, New Jersey, Denver and Toronto, reflecting Better Future’s adaptability and innovative business strategies.
Mellow Massage
Community: In a World laden with corporate culture, a company’s mission seems to transcend mere business development!
It would seem the spaces are catalysts for personal transformations with one studio manager of Yoga Box noting; “It’s a regular occurrence to see members of our studios sharing heartfelt stories about how our brands have helped them on so many levels, whether we’re challenging you to grow or just to be there with you on your journey.” It speaks to more than just physical or aesthetic improvements; reflecting deep emotional and social growth. Which in my opinion, is something we’re all striving for!
“Our businesses are more than just places to work out or receive a service; they are diverse community hubs where lasting friendships are forged, and personal breakthroughs happen regularly,” Shannon Canu explains. “Hearing how our community has embraced these spaces as their own, finding within them the support and strength to transform their lives, truly encapsulates what we strive to build.”
Yoga Box
Giving back:
Since 2017, Better Future has significantly enriched communities by creating thousands of jobs across the country, including getting involved in local events, donation drives and more.
“We believe in fostering spaces that are not just businesses but hubs for human connection,” Shannon Canu asserts. “Our goal is to leave the communities we serve better than we found them—whether by creating a dynamic fitness culture, offering a tranquil wellness retreat, or providing a stylish new haircut. Every venture we undertake is an extension of our belief that people thrive when equipped with the right tools, resources, and supportive environments.”
This spirit of community uplift is at the heart of Better Future’s mission, which transcends the boundaries of wellness, beauty, and fitness industries. The company’s ultimate ambition is deeply personal—transforming entrepreneurial dreams into thriving businesses and enduring legacies.
Building on a strong culture of giving back, Better Future remains dedicated to empowering other business owners by providing comprehensive mentorship, strategic financial investments, and hands-on operational guidance. “We didn’t get here alone,” Billy Canu reflects. “Our passion for collaboration is why we actively partner with entrepreneurs eager to elevate their businesses. We seek out not just innovative ideas, but passionate individuals determined to create something truly extraordinary.”
Yoga Box
Looking to the future:
As Better Future sets its sights forward, the company is keenly focused on broadening its geographical footprint across the United States. With an ambitious goal to establish a location in every state, Better Future aims to bring its successful model of business revitalization and community development to new markets nationwide.
Billy Canu explains, “Our future is about presence and accessibility. By expanding into every state, we’re looking to make our services and community impact universally accessible. This isn’t just about growing our network—it’s about weaving our philosophy of empowerment and local engagement into the fabric of every community we touch.”
This strategic expansion is designed to replicate the success seen in cities like San Diego and New York, adapting a model to the unique needs and cultures of different regions. The ultimate goal is clear: to ensure that no matter where you are in the country, a Better Future location is part of your community, helping to turn local dreams into national legacies.
Mellow Massage
Commitment to Giving Back
Since 2017, Better Future has significantly enhanced communities by not only creating thousands of jobs nationwide but also by actively participating in local events and organizing donation drives. “We aim to leave the communities we serve better than we found them,” Shannon asserts, “whether it’s by fostering a dynamic fitness culture, providing a serene wellness retreat, or delivering a fresh, stylish haircut. Each venture we undertake is an extension of our belief in empowering individuals through proper tools, resources, and supportive environments.”
This ethos of community elevation is deeply embedded in Better Future’s DNA, influencing its engagements across the wellness, beauty, and fitness sectors. Their ultimate ambition is profoundly personal—turning entrepreneurial dreams into thriving businesses and lasting legacies.
Better Future
What’s next? Everywhere.
As Better Future sets its sights forward, the company is keenly focused on broadening its geographical footprint across the United States. With an ambitious goal to establish a location in every state, Better Future aims to bring its successful model of business revitalization and community development to new markets nationwide.
Billy Canu explains, “Our future is about presence and accessibility. By expanding into every state, we’re looking to make our services and community impact universally accessible. This isn’t just about growing our network—it’s about weaving our philosophy of empowerment and local engagement into the fabric of every community we touch.”
This ambitious expansion seeks to replicate their proven model in diverse locales, tailored to meet the unique needs and cultures of various regions. The ultimate aim is straightforward: integrate a Better Future location into communities nationwide, turning local aspirations into national success stories.
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Studio S
OCTOBER 22, 2026
Milan Design + Build Helps San Diegans Remodel Their Homes
The San Diego home remodeling company works on full homes, kitchens, bathrooms, home additions, ADUs, garages, landscapes, and hardscapes.
Most homeowners want two things before they commit to a remodel: a realistic sense of cost and a clear picture of what the finished space will look like. Milan Design + Build helps deliver both through its online remodeling estimator and personalized design consultations, supported by a showroom experience and 3D renderings.
“The online estimate gives homeowners a starting number in about a minute, and the showroom and 3D renderings let them see materials and layouts before anything is built,” says David Noriani, CEO of Milan Design + Build. “Keeping design, permits, and construction with one team helps us manage expectations and keep everyone working toward the same vision.”
Courtesy of Milan Design
Modern design is a particular focus for Milan, with an emphasis on clean lines, natural light, functional layouts, and carefully selected materials. The team adapts each design to the homeowner’s lifestyle and the character of the property. Milan Design + Build combines thoughtful design with construction expertise, creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.
The online estimator covers kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, full-home remodels, and ADU construction. At Milan’s showroom on Carroll Road, visitors can review real materials, finishes, and design options, meet the design-build team, and discuss project scope, budget, and timing. Consultations can also be held virtually for homeowners who prefer to start remotely.
At Milan Design + Build, one integrated team works on the entire project. Design and construction aren’t divided between separate firms. The process begins with a consultation and feasibility review, followed by design, space planning, and 3D renderings developed from detailed measurements and digital scans. The team also coordinates architectural plans, structural engineering, city approvals, and material selection, with construction overseen by a dedicated project manager.
Homeowners can explore their remodeling options, get an initial estimate, or request a design consultation at MilanBuild.com.
Association of Fundraising Professionals San Diego To Recognize 11 Honorees at 54th Annual National Philanthropy Day in November
This year’s theme, 'Impact Through Philanthropy,’ spotlights the impact of individuals, businesses and community organizations throughout San Diego County.
“Impact through Philanthropy isn’t just a theme; it’s what we see every day in San Diego’s diverse communities,” said Ingrid de Llamas, CFRE, IAP, AFP San Diego chapter president. “The honorees show what’s possible when intention meets generosity, leadership and dedication come together. We’re honored to celebrate the honorees alongside our presenting sponsor, PNC Bank.”
“Philanthropy is one of San Diego’s great strengths—not just because of this community’s generosity, but because of what happens when people unite around the belief that our region can be better,” said Mark Stuart, President & CEO of the San Diego Foundation and Honorary Committee Chair for National Philanthropy Day. “National Philanthropy Day lets us recognize the donors, volunteers, fundraisers, and organizations who turn that belief into action, strengthening lives throughout our community. Celebrating them reminds us all of the extraordinary power we have when we work together.”
Eleven honorees, including eight individuals and three organizations, were selected from scores of nominees submitted from throughout San Diego County. Honorees were selected through a rigorous vetting process by AFP San Diego’s Honorary Committee.
2026 National Philanthropy Day Honorees:
Outstanding Development Professional, Emerging Leader – Miguel Lopez, CFRE (San Diego Foundation)
Outstanding Development Professional, Mid-Career – Amie Brown, CFRM (Meals on Wheels San Diego County)
Outstanding Development Professional, Career Achievement – David Hanses (Scripps Institution of Oceanography)
Outstanding Organization, IDEA – The San Diego LGBT Community Center
Outstanding Grantmaking Organization – David C. Copley Foundation
Outstanding Philanthropic Business or Corporation – Maya’s Cookies
Outstanding Student Volunteer – Chris Zheng (Casa de Amistad)
Outstanding Volunteer – Dr. Suzanne Afflalo (A Healthier Me)
Outstanding Volunteer – Fred Davis (Serving Seniors)
Outstanding Philanthropists – Mel & Linda Katz
Special Lifetime Achievement Award – Ingrid de Llamas, CFRE, IAP
National Philanthropy Day Supports AFP San Diego’s Empower Fund
Beyond recognizing local philanthropic leadership, National Philanthropy Day supports the Empower Fund, powered by U.S. Bank, which provides scholarships, educational opportunities and professional development for nonprofit leaders.
In its inaugural year, AFP San Diego raised $28,000 for the Empower Fund through National Philanthropy Day, with a goal of $50,000 in 2026. Contributions directly support educational initiatives for nonprofit professionals throughout the region. Donations are accepted year-round.
AFP San Diego’s National Philanthropy Day is made possible through the generous support of Presenting Sponsor PNC Bank, Empower Sponsor U.S. Bank, Focus Sponsor Sanford Institute of Philanthropy at NU and dozens of partners. View the full list of 2026 sponsors.
Event Details
Friday, Nov. 13, 2026 | 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101
Tickets and partnership opportunities are available at AFPSD.org – NPD 2026! For more information, contact Fiona King at 619-538-6605 or [email protected].
About AFP San Diego
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) San Diego Chapter has supported fundraising professionals and nonprofit leaders throughout San Diego County since 1974. Through professional education, mentorship, networking and leadership opportunities, AFP San Diego connects people at every stage of their careers while advancing ethical and effective fundraising practices. With more than 350 local members and connections to a global network of fundraising professionals, AFP San Diego invests in the people behind philanthropy to strengthen nonprofits and the communities they serve. Learn more at AFPSD.org & follow AFPSD on LinkedIn
In the last several years, there’s been a surge in FDA approvals for what’s known as oral oncolytics. Oral oncolytics are targeted cancer therapies that come in tablet, capsule or liquid form that patients can take at home, rather than in an infusion clinic. Scripps physicians have seen exponential growth using this approach, with patients citing convenience as a major quality-of-life enhancement in their cancer treatment. This approach also allows treatments to be customized based on specific genetic mutations and a patient’s unique disease biology. Find out more about oral oncolytics here.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.
Unio Specialty Care is a multi-specialty practice specializing in urology, gastroenterology, and radiation oncology.
Unio’s Radiation Oncology team—Dr. Donald B. Fuller, Dr. Tahir Ijaz, Dr. Reza Shirazi, and Dr. Siavosh Vakilian—combines extensive clinical experience with a commitment to personalized cancer care. The RO team treats cancerous and non-cancerous conditions using precision therapies including SBRT, IGRT, and the CyberKnife® S7 System, the only system of its kind in Southern California. Their expertise spans prostate, breast, lung, gastrointestinal, pancreatic, and central nervous system cancers, as well as low-dose radiotherapy for osteoarthritis.
In 2026, Dr. Shirazi and Dr. Vakilian were recognized as San Diego Top Doctors, joining Dr. Fuller and Dr. Ijaz, who have previously received this distinction.
Faces of Healthcare 2026: San Diego Fertility Center
Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.
Susanna Park, MD; Sandy Chuan, MD; Brooke Friedman, MD; Said Daneshmand, MD; Valerie Flores, MD; Bryn Willson, MD
At San Diego Fertility Center, parenthood starts with personalized, cutting-edge care. Nationally recognized physicians offer individualized plans spanning IVF, PGT, egg donation, surrogacy, Gentle IVF, fertility preservation, and LGBTQ+ family building. Newsweek ranked them among America’s Best Fertility Clinics in 2026: top 6% of 450+ clinics nationwide, and best in San Diego.
“Remind yourself you are not alone! You don’t have to have all the answers before you walk through the door,” says Dr. Friedman. “Our job is to listen, explain your options, and guide you toward what makes sense for you. Because fertility care isn’t one-size-fits-all — and building your family should feel like your journey, supported every step of the way.”
Faces of Healthcare 2026: North County Cardiovascular Specialists
Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.
At NCCS, both doctors take a personal, traditional approach to cardiovascular care. Patients speak directly with their physicians and build lasting relationships with doctors who know them.
“We became doctors to care for patients, not to run a business,” says Dr. Kabra, who trained in England and the United States and leads the practice’s office-based cardiac care. Dr. Rajamanickam, an interventional cardiologist trained under renowned Dr. Samin Sharma, shares the same philosophy.
Guided by evidence-based medicine, they tailor care to each patient’s unique history, physiology, lifestyle and goals. Both are respected, well-reviewed physicians and four-time Top Doctors.
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3142 Vista Way, Suite 206, Oceanside, CA 92056 760-224-7776
