A venture studio is a unique model that creates new startups, often designed to minimize risk and build companies more efficiently. While building a startup can often feel chaotic, for Motiv, a Calgary-based venture studio, chaos becomes a canvas for creating purpose-driven solutions. With a bold mission to develop ventures that deliver real impact, Motiv is reshaping how organizations approach innovation, strategy, and growth.
The journey of Motiv began with frustration over inefficiencies in traditional consulting models.
Led by Clark Lai and Mariya Besedina, Motiv was created with the aim of setting a new standard for excellence in the venture studio space. “Too often, organizations spend significant time and money on outside consultants, only to receive subpar results,” says Lai. “At Motiv, we focus on end-to-end solutions that align with immediate goals while anticipating future growth.” Motiv’s integrated approach spans innovation strategy, business model design, and go-to-market planning, ensuring every project drives meaningful outcomes. For Lai, it’s all about crafting ventures that resonate with partners, customers, and investors alike.
“We saw an opportunity to provide organizations with end-to-end venture-building solutions—spanning innovation strategy, business model design, and go-to-market planning—that not only address their immediate goals but also anticipate their future needs and growth,” Lai explains.
Motiv’s unique innovation framework is designed to adapt to the diverse needs of corporate leaders. From opportunity discovery to refining ongoing projects, their systematic yet flexible model ensures success across a variety of scenarios.
“We collaborate closely with innovation teams to map opportunities and develop strategies,” Lai explains. “Our focus is on creating a balance between structure and adaptability, which is key to driving meaningful outcomes.” Motiv’s 2024 ventures highlight its vision and ambition, including:
- CanTax: An AI co-pilot for accounting and tax firms, set to revolutionize workflows with upgraded AI pipelines in the next tax season.
- Huddl: A fast-growing B2B event platform facilitating seamless event experiences nationwide.
- Okliko: A personal AI concierge simplifying everyday errands and empowering businesses through AI-driven management tools.
- AdvisorDesk: A fintech platform enhancing financial management for advisors and clients.
- Luvio: A cutting-edge real-time data streaming platform currently piloting in key industries like logistics and banking.
With plans to expand into fintech, HR tech, legal tech, prop tech, and industrial tech in 2025, Motiv is poised to tackle some of the most dynamic areas of innovation. Motiv is actively seeking ambitious founders with a collaborative mindset. “You don’t need a fully formed idea to work with us,” says Lai. “We have a pipeline of validated concepts waiting for the right founder to bring them to life.”
Their advice to founders? Focus on collaboration over competition. Building strategic partnerships and engaging with your ecosystem early can provide invaluable feedback and opportunities. As a proud member of Calgary’s innovation ecosystem, Motiv is helping shape Alberta’s transformation into a dynamic hub for tech and entrepreneurship. “The awareness and ambition here have grown exponentially over the past decade,” Lai notes. “While there’s still work to be done, the momentum is undeniable.”
Motiv sees a bright future for venture studios and corporate innovation. “The industry is shifting toward more sustainable and collaborative funding models,” Lai observes. Ecosystem collaboration among corporates, startups, and universities is breaking down silos, creating fertile ground for partnerships and growth. Looking ahead, Motiv aims to continue fostering innovation through de-risked opportunities and strengthened partnerships. “Our goal is to build an environment where ideas can thrive and create lasting impact,” says Lai.
With its bold vision, adaptable frameworks, and focus on real-world impact, Motiv is not just a venture studio—it’s a catalyst for innovation. As 2025 approaches, all eyes are on this Calgary powerhouse as it continues to redefine what’s possible in the world of venture building.
