When Yaser Maddahi first arrived in Manitoba, he carried more than just his belongings—he brought with him a vision that would revolutionize surgical robotics. Now, as the founder and chief executive officer of Tactile Robotics, Maddahi has turned that vision into reality.
An immigrant from Iran, Maddahi moved to Winnipeg in 2009 to obtain his Ph.D. in engineering at the University of Manitoba. In 2018, alongside his wife, Maryam Kalvandi, and his brother, Ali Maddahi, Yaser founded Tactile Robotics—a company that specializes in AI-driven robotic solutions for dental education and telehealth, providing innovative tools that bridge the gap between learning and practical application.
Innovating Dental Education
The company’s flagship products, DenTeach and PrepScanner, are revolutionizing how dental professionals learn, practice, and evaluate skills. DenTeach allows students and practitioners to train using cutting-edge, measurable tools, while PrepScanner offers advanced evaluation of dental preparation techniques. These technologies are already making waves, with sales to institutions such as the University of Manitoba, Johns Hopkins University, Duke University, and Charles Sturt University.
The Entrepreneurial Journey
Maddahi’s journey as an immigrant entrepreneur is one of many that underscores the profound contributions newcomers make to Manitoba’s economy. It took not only determination, but also developing an understanding of intellectual property law, to bring Tactile to where it is today.
“Intellectual property is like a different language,” Maddahi said. “I filed my first patent in 2018 or 2019, and the experience reminded me of when I had to learn English after immigrating to Canada. It was like decoding a language from Mars.”
In early 2024, Tactile Robotics joined North Forge’s ElevateIP program, which helped the company further refine its intellectual property strategy and navigate the complexities of scaling its business. The federally-funded initiative allows North Forge—a not-for-profit tech startup incubator and accelerator in Manitoba— and other Canadian organizations to provide startups with IP assistance they likely can’t spare the price of otherwise.
“The program helped us refine every aspect of our IP strategy—something that’s vital for entrepreneurship but rarely understood. Now, we are ready to scale even more. [ElevateIP] isn’t just about filing patents—it’s about building an IP strategy that fits our business,” said Maddahi.
This strategy has been pivotal in scaling Maddahi’s business, helping Tactile Robotics secure its position as a leader in robotic innovation.
Recognition and Global Impact
The recognition of Tactile Robotics’ success extends beyond local acclaim. In late 2024, the company was awarded Startup of the Year by Peachscore, the world’s largest data-driven accelerator based in Silicon Valley. This international recognition cements Manitoba’s reputation as a hub for cutting-edge innovation and technology.
Shaping Manitoba’s Future
Maddahi’s journey—from a newcomer to a leader in robotics innovation—reflects the broader impact of programs like those offered by North Forge. His story is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of immigrant entrepreneurs and highlights Manitoba as a province where talent, innovation, and opportunity come together.
As Tactile Robotics continues to grow, so too does its impact on Manitoba’s economy and reputation on the global stage. Maddahi’s success is not only a win for the company but also for the province, showcasing how immigrant entrepreneurs are shaping a brighter, more innovative future for Manitoba.
Want to learn more about Tactile Robotics revolutionary tech? Explore www.tactilerobotics.ca. For entrepreneurs, take the leap from idea to reality with North Forge’s Founder’s Program, or find out how you can safeguard your intellectual property with ElevateIP at www.northforge.ca.
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