Winnipeg has earned a major moment on the global innovation stage. Local startup TAIV has been recognized on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for Marketing and Advertising, a milestone that reflects not only the founders’ achievements but the strength of Manitoba’s startup ecosystem powered by North Forge.
For co founder Noah Palansky, the news arrived without warning. No shortlist. No heads up. Just his and co founder Jordan Davis’s names published on one of the world’s most influential recognition lists.
“It’s genuinely a surprise who makes the list,” Palansky said. “Seeing they just published our name… yeah, great way to wake up.”
From RampUp Weekend to a Forbes 30 Under 30 Winnipeg Success Story
TAIV’s journey began at North Forge’s RampUp Weekend in 2018, where the founders won top prize and decided to turn their 50 hour pitch into a real company. The road to launch was long, delayed by development challenges and the pandemic. When COVID 19 shut down venues across North America, their original model collapsed overnight.
That challenge led to their breakthrough. TAIV pivoted to an ad supported platform that replaces live TV commercials inside venues with location specific promotions approved by owners. The simplicity of the product unlocked rapid growth.
Since launching in 2021, TAIV has doubled its revenue every year and now powers nearly 5,000 venues across the United States. The company works with brands like Coke, Pepsi, Netflix, T Mobile, FanDuel, Fox, and United Airlines.
This momentum is exactly the kind of success that demonstrates why Forbes 30 Under 30 Winnipeg recognition matters for the province: it shows that Manitoba entrepreneurs are building companies with global impact.
How TAIV’s Technology Works
When a sports broadcast cuts to commercial inside a TAIV equipped venue, the ad is swapped for something relevant to the person watching. Restaurants can show in house promotions, local advertisers can target customers on site, and venues earn revenue through their displays.
Venues gain control of the atmosphere. Advertisers gain precision. Customers see content that makes sense for where they are.
A Moment of Recognition for the Founders and the Province
Palansky says the Forbes achievement offered a rare moment to pause and reflect.
“There are very few moments where a third party reaches out and says, ‘We’ve noticed what you did, and we think it’s awesome.’ This felt like one of those rare moments.”
He also sees the recognition as a win for the community.
“I wish we had more Winnipeg entrepreneurs on the global stage because it’s really good for the local ecosystem,” he said. “I’m trying to do what I can to help others get off the ground.”
This aligns directly with what North Forge works to achieve: creating a startup environment where founders can access tools, mentorship, and programming designed to help them grow into globally competitive companies.
A North Forge Success Story
As a North Forge supported company, TAIV’s journey reflects the purpose of our four stage Founders Program — helping innovators move from idea to investment readiness and beyond. The company has grown its team from 30 to 75 this year, with 80 percent based in Winnipeg. Their progress showcases what is possible within Manitoba’s innovation ecosystem.
TAIV’s recognition on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Winnipeg list is more than a milestone for two founders. It is a signal of the strength, talent, and momentum of Manitoba entrepreneurs who begin their journeys here at North Forge.
What’s Next for TAIV
TAIV continues expanding across North America, strengthening partnerships, and onboarding advertisers as the network grows. For local venues or businesses interested in installing TAIV or exploring advertising opportunities, the company welcomes conversations at hello@taiv.tv.
